UNESCO Opens Applications for World Heritage Young Professionals Forum – Apply by April 22!
UNESCO Opens Applications for World Heritage Young Professionals Forum. Are you a young heritage professional or enthusiast passionate about preserving the world’s cultural and natural wonders? Great news — UNESCO has officially launched the call for applications for the World Heritage Young Professionals Forum 2025, taking place at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris from July 1–8, 2025. The theme for this prestigious forum is “World Heritage in an Interconnected World: Leveraging Digital Technologies and Innovative Approaches.”
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Organized as part of the 47th session of the World Heritage Committee and supported by the Republic of Bulgaria, this unique forum will bring together talented young professionals from around the globe to engage with the latest in heritage preservation, including artificial intelligence (AI), virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR), digital mapping, and more.
Disclaimer: We are not affiliated with UNESCO. This article is intended only to promote the opportunity and provide accessible details to potential applicants.
Background & Forum Objectives
The World Heritage Young Professionals Forum is a core initiative of the UNESCO World Heritage Education Programme, designed to empower the next generation of cultural and natural heritage leaders. Each year, the forum aligns with the agenda of the World Heritage Committee to provide a collaborative space where young experts explore key topics surrounding heritage protection.
The 2025 edition takes a bold step into the digital age, with the central theme focusing on how modern technologies are revolutionizing the way we document, protect, and share our global heritage. Participants will explore:
- The role of digital innovation in heritage preservation and promotion.
- How AI, immersive tools (AR/VR), 3D modeling, and drones can support monitoring and conservation efforts.
- Strategies for using technology to enhance public engagement with heritage sites.
- Sustainable heritage management and inclusive community-based approaches.
- Youth engagement and leadership in driving forward heritage policies.
Participants will also develop a collective Declaration that will be formally presented at the 47th session of the World Heritage Committee, contributing to global decision-making.
What to Expect at the Forum
The World Heritage Young Professionals Forum 2025 is more than just a conference. It’s a transformative experience for those looking to engage with global heritage from a fresh, tech-savvy perspective.
Key Activities Include:
- Workshops & Technical Sessions: Learn how to apply AI, AR/VR, drones, digital mapping, and 3D tools to cultural preservation.
- Field Visits (if applicable): Experience heritage management in action, possibly through digital simulations or on-site experiences near Paris.
- Intercultural Dialogue: Collaborate with other young professionals from around the world, share knowledge, and exchange best practices.
- Team Projects & Innovation Labs: Work on group challenges to design new approaches for sustainable heritage engagement.
- Official Declaration Drafting: Co-create a youth-led statement that will be submitted to the World Heritage Committee.
This immersive week-long experience provides participants with the opportunity to network with global peers, build digital skills, and influence the future of World Heritage governance.
UNESCO Opens Applications for World Heritage Young Professionals Forum
Eligibility & Application Process
If you’re passionate about culture, nature, technology, and community-based solutions, here’s how you can apply:
Who Can Apply?
- Young professionals aged 23–32 years (as of the date of the forum) with a demonstrated interest or background in fields such as:
- Heritage conservation
- Cultural studies
- Architecture
- Archaeology
- Urban planning
- Environmental sciences
- Museum or digital heritage
- Information technologies
- Arts and communication
- Candidates must be able to communicate proficiently in English (as working language of the forum).
- Preference will be given to applicants with previous experience in heritage-related fields or participation in youth-led initiatives.
- Applicants must be available to attend the full forum in Paris from July 1 to July 8, 2025.
Application Deadline
🗓 Deadline: April 22, 2025 at 23:59 CET
How to Apply
- Visit the Official Call for Applications (link to be added when available).
- Complete the Online Application Form.
- Submit all required documents, which may include:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Letter of motivation or statement of interest
- Recommendation letter (optional but encouraged)
- Proof of age and nationality (e.g., passport)
🛑 Incomplete applications or submissions after the deadline will not be considered.
Questions?
Contact the UNESCO organizing team at:
📧 wh-ypf@unesco.org
Why You Should Apply
Participating in the World Heritage Young Professionals Forum 2025 is more than just attending a week-long event — it’s about becoming part of a global movement to safeguard humanity’s shared treasures.
Here’s what makes this forum a must for emerging professionals:
- 🌍 Global Exposure: Engage with international heritage experts, policymakers, and peers from all regions.
- 🤝 Networking Opportunities: Build relationships that extend beyond the forum, opening doors to future collaborations and career paths.
- 💡 Skills Development: Gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies and sustainable management tools.
- 🧭 Leadership Experience: Represent your generation’s voice at the 47th session of the World Heritage Committee.
- 🏛 Prestigious Platform: Being selected as a participant adds significant value to your professional profile.
Important Dates
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| April 22, 2025 | Application Deadline (23:59 CET) |
| July 1–8, 2025 | Forum Dates – UNESCO Headquarters, Paris |
| July 6–16, 2025 | 47th Session of the World Heritage Committee |
Final Thoughts
The World Heritage Young Professionals Forum 2025 is your gateway to becoming a changemaker in global heritage preservation. Whether you’re an emerging architect, digital heritage expert, or a conservation advocate, this forum offers the chance to merge tradition with innovation — and help protect the legacy of our world for generations to come.
🌐 Take your passion global. Apply by April 22 and become part of the heritage future.
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