The Fijian Parliament has successfully passed the Fiji World Heritage Bill 2023, a significant piece of legislation aimed at bringing the country’s laws in line with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s (UNESCO) World Heritage Convention, which Fiji ratified in 1990.
This new law is intended to identify, protect, and manage cultural and natural sites of importance that have the potential to be recognized as World Heritage Sites or are already designated as such.
Key features of the bill include the establishment of the Fiji Heritage Council, which will be responsible for overseeing the management of heritage sites. Additionally, the bill will create a Fiji Heritage Register to systematically catalog and manage these sites. It also outlines the creation of trust funds to assist in the conservation of registered sites, thereby ensuring that Fiji meets its obligations under the UNESCO Convention within its national legal framework.
This legislative move not only reinforces Fiji’s commitment to preserving its rich cultural and natural heritage but also enhances its ability to promote tourism and education related to these invaluable sites.
By strengthening the protection and management of its heritage, Fiji is taking an important step towards ensuring that future generations can appreciate and learn from the unique aspects of its history and environment.
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