Istanbul to host 2027 UNESCO World Heritage Committee session

Preparations have officially begun for the 49th Session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee, which will be held in Istanbul in 2027 under Türkiye's presidency. Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy met with the President of the UNESCO Türkiye National Commission, Prof. Dr. M. Öcal Oğuz, to establish a strategic roadmap for the event.

Minister Ersoy emphasized that the summit should serve as a global showcase for Türkiye's cultural heritage and its modern approach to preservation. The organization will involve high-level coordination, with the Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA) playing a central role in the operational processes.

Technical preparations will include upgrading technological infrastructure, digital accreditation systems, and ensuring international standards for security, health, and accessibility. Additionally, a global communication strategy will be implemented to engage international media, including the preparation of a special issue for UNESCO's World Heritage magazine in Turkish, English, and French.