China Hosts First ICOMOS University Forum in Asia

On 21 September, ICOMOS China held its 1st University Forum dedicated to Chinese cultural heritage in collaboration with Tsinghua University’s School of Architecture, in Beijing. A total of 120 attendees participated in this event aimed to explore the implications of cultural heritage studies.

The forum’s theme ‘Advancements in the Discipline of Cultural Heritage’ encompassed a range of topics such as the interactions between ICOMOS and university resources, the theory and methodology of cultural heritage studies, and its integration into practice. Participants in the event included cultural heritage students and professors, experts and researchers from 8 countries (China, Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Belgium, France, Brazil, Mexico), and representatives from over 10 Chinese universities, WHITRAP, and ICOMOS China.

Among the speakers were ICOMOS Vice President Leonardo Castriota, who delivered a presentation on ‘The Venice Charter and Contemporary Conservation Theory’, highlighting the Eurocentric aspect of this founding text and encouraging more diverse and inclusive conservation approaches through global interdisciplinary methods.

ICOMOS Board members Doo-Won Cho and Takeyuki Okubo also took part in the event. Doo-Won Cho delivered a speech on military and fortified heritage, analysing its functional attributes, socio-economic value, and role in preserving memory and strategic thinking. Takeyuki Okubo then discussed the importance of risk preparedness and disaster risk management, emphasising the need to train heritage professionals through capacity-building programmes. 

Song Xinchao, President of ICOMOS China, reflected on the outcomes of ICOMOS youth talent initiatives, ICOMOS China's participation in the ICOMOS Youth Working Group, and the establishment and development of cultural heritage-related programs in China. Finally, ICOMOS China Vice President and Chair of the forum Zhang Jie explored the ‘Interdisciplinary Research Applications and Development Trends in Chinese Cultural Heritage Conservation’. 

The day following the forum, participants visited Jingshan Park and the Bell and Drum Towers in Beijing to better understand the city's heritage conservation efforts. The 2nd ICOMOS China Cultural Heritage University Forum will be held in Tianjin in 2025.

Photo credits: ICOMOS China