27-28 March 2025, Beijing — The HIA Legal Frameworks Seminar for East Asia took place at Minzu University of China. Co-organized by the Law School of Minzu University, the Law School of Renmin University, UNESCO’s East Asia Regional Office, WHITR-AP Shanghai, and the UNESCO Chair on Cultural Heritage Law at Renmin University, the event attracted over 50 officials and experts from China and abroad, including Australia, India, Italy, Japan, Malaysia etc.

In his opening remarks, Professor Shahbaz Khan, Director of UNESCO’s East Asia Regional Office, stressed the urgent need for global solutions to heritage protection challenges. Professor Jiang Shigong, President of Minzu University, emphasized cross-border collaboration and legal awareness. Professor Yang Dong highlighted Renmin University’s achievements in cultural heritage law, while Professor Shao Yong, Director of WHITR-AP Shanghai, from The College of Architecture and Urban planning, Tongji University, shared the center’s rich experience from past training and research on World Heritage conservation. 

Key discussions centered on HIA frameworks, local practices, and implementation challenges. Participants agreed that integrating HIA into national laws is vital, but acknowledged complexities due to diverse heritage forms and legal contexts. The seminar concluded by advocating adaptable, context-sensitive policies to balance preservation with socio-economic development.

Edited by: WHITRAP