Advocacy
Advocacy aimed at the better protection of underwater cultural heritage
Through international cooperation, research, and advocacy, ICUCH works to ensure that underwater cultural heritage is safeguarded, studied, and passed on to future generations as a source of knowledge, identity, and inspiration. This has been a fundamental activity for ICUCH.
As such, ICUCH also serves as an advisory body to the Secretariat of the 2001 UNESCO Convention on the Protection of the Underwater Cultural Heritage, which promotes the safeguarding of submerged heritage for the benefit of humanity.
ICUCH contributed significantly to the development of the Convention. Its 1996 ICOMOS Charter on the Protection and Management of the Underwater Cultural Heritage formed the basis for the Annex of the Convention, which outlines best practices for underwater archaeological activities. ICUCH therefore, represents the soul of the 2001 Convention.
ICUCH serves not only as an advisory body to the Secretariat of the 2001 UNESCO Convention, but also as a source of expert guidance to any government, institution, or organisation confronted with issues relating to submerged cultural heritage. ICUCH regularly responds to requests for assistance from both States Parties and non-States Parties. In certain circumstances, it may also provide guidance proactively, particularly where the protection of underwater cultural heritage is at risk or where independent expertise is deemed necessary to support responsible and informed decision-making.