(Phnom Penh): The 48th Session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee adopted decisions condemning the destruction of World Heritage properties during armed conflicts, reaffirming international obligations to protect cultural heritage in times of war, according to a press release seen by Fresh News on Friday (Jul. 31).

Held in Paris from 22 to 29 July 2026, the session brought together representatives from 162 States Parties, as well as international organisations, partner institutions, and observer bodies. The Cambodian delegation was led by Suos Yara, Chairman of the International Peace Advisory and the Asian Political Parties Network and Asian Youth Advisory (ICAPP-ACC) of the Cambodian People's Party.

The committee reaffirmed obligations under the 1954 Hague Convention, the 1970 UNESCO Convention, and relevant UN Security Council resolutions, calling on all parties involved in armed conflicts to protect World Heritage sites and refrain from using them for military purposes.

Speaking on behalf of Cambodia, Suos Yara called for those responsible for attacks on cultural heritage to be held accountable under international law. He also proposed strengthening cooperation among World Heritage sites through an "Ancient Sister Cities" network and encouraged the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the protection, preservation, and conservation of cultural heritage

During the session, the Thai delegation reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding World Heritage properties but did not directly respond to allegations that the Thai military had caused damage to heritage sites during the recent border conflict.
=FRESH NEWS