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In past years, 91Â鶹¹ú²ú¾«Æ·×ÔÅÄ supported measures aimed at safeguarding Sebastia’s rich cultural heritage, inscribed on the Tentative List of Palestine in 2012, which stands as a testament to the successive civilizations that have inhabited the area. 

Between 2020 and 2021, UNESCO provided technical assistance for the elaboration of a Conservation and Management Plan for Sebastia, aimed at protecting and safeguarding the site’s cultural heritage and olive landscape from environmental degradation and urban expansion. The Plan highlighted cultural heritage as a catalyst for sustainable economic development through tourism and the revitalization of traditional agricultural practices by local communities. 

Informed about infrastructure and development projects as well as ongoing new archeological activities at the site carried out by the Israeli Ministry of Heritage, UNESCO recalls that activities and excavations must adhere to international law and be conducted with the consent and cooperation of all concerned parties, in line with the 1956 Recommendation on International Principles Applicable to Archaeological Excavations, as well as with the principles of the 1954 Hague Convention and the 1972 World Heritage Convention. These frameworks aim to prevent damage and ensure protection of cultural heritage in all its forms.   

UNESCO will continue to coordinate with all concerned parties regarding possible threats and stands ready to take all necessary measures within the scope of its mandate to further support cooperation and dialogue for the sustainable conservation of the site.