Vietnam hosts Asia-Pacific Dialogue on Heritage and Authenticity

Vietnam successfully hosted the Asia-Pacific Dialogue on Heritage and Authenticity in Hanoi and Ninh Binh. The conference brought together global heritage leaders, experts, and representatives from the World Heritage Committee to discuss core issues regarding the World Heritage Convention.

A major outcome of the event was the adoption of the ‘Hanoi Document on Heritage and Authenticity’. This document marks a significant shift in the methodology and mindset of heritage conservation globally, providing a clear Asia-Pacific perspective to follow the 1994 Nara Document and the 2025 Nairobi Document.

The hosting of this dialogue coincides with the 50th anniversary of the relationship between Vietnam and UNESCO. According to UNESCO representatives, the event demonstrates Vietnam's evolving role from a recipient of international aid to an active contributor of ideas and initiatives to regional and global discussions. This occurs alongside the UN's declaration of the International Decade for the Sustainable Development of Culture (2027-2036), an initiative proposed by Vietnam.