World heritage: observations on decisions related to cultural heritage

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to examine the decision‐making process related to the inscription of properties on the World Heritage List. Design/methodology/approach Consideration is given to the general framework provided by the 1972 World Heritage Convention, and elaborated by the World Heritage Committee in the Operational Guidelines for the Implementation of the Convention. Findings The paper examines the tasks and responsibilities of each partner to the World Heritage process, from the State Party to UNESCO and the Advisory Bodies. There is a panorama offered from the changes and trends that have impacted the decisions, including a number of cases as examples. Finally, the paper proposes some improvements to the system, taking into account the role of each stakeholder. Originality/value This is the first paper examining the theme concerned.