Forum UNESCO

The third international seminar of Forum UNESCO was held at Deakin University in Melbourne, Australia. The resulting declaration reiterates the objectives of the international network of universities that have programs related to tangible and intangible heritage and outlines commitments to expand the network. These include strengthening training of university students, sharing and exchanging knowledge and skills, increasing public awareness of the importance of cultural heritage, and strengthening cooperation with organizations responsible for cultural heritage including ICOMOS, the International Council of Museums, and the World Monuments Fund. The Declaration also recommends that teaching programs include cultural heritage law in their curriculum and strengthen international cooperation through training programs, scholarship and fellowships. Deakin University also declares its intention to establish a regional center for international conservation of cultural heritage.