The Rideau Canal Skateway, the world's largest open-air ice rink and a UNESCO world heritage site in Canada, will not open this year for the first time in its history because of a mild winter.

World's largest skating rink in Canada won't open this year

One of North Africa's most famous cities is undergoing a revival. Egyptian architects have launched a project to restore historic areas of Cairo to its former glory as they fear ancient artefacts might otherwise be lost. Cairo was declared as a world heritage site by UNESCO in 1979.

Bringing Cairo back to life by renovating historic buildings

One of North Africa's most famous cities is undergoing a revival. Egyptian architects have launched a project to restore historic areas of Cairo to its former glory, as they fear that ancient artifacts might otherwise be lost. Historic Cairo was declared a world heritage site by UNESCO in 1979.

World Of Africa: Bringing Cairo back to life

The annual orchid festival of London’s Kew Gardens focusses on the wildlife of Cameroon.

Kew Garden's annual orchid festival looks to wildlife of Cameroon

The ancient centre of Odessa, a port city in Ukraine that is sometimes referred to as "the pearl of the Black Sea," was added to UNESCO's World Heritage List on Wednesday (January 25) despite opposition from Russia. With six votes in favour, one against, and 14 abstentions, the world heritage committee's 21 member nations accepted the city's designation as a world historic site.

Russia, which invaded Ukraine in February last year, repeatedly tried to delay the vote to recognise the site's "outstanding universal value" and "the duty of all humanity to protect it".

"While the war continues, this inscription embodies our collective determination to ensure that this city, which has always surmounted global upheavals, is preserved from further destruction," said UNESCO director-general Audrey Azoulay after the decision.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-a-major-reversal-us-announces-it-will-send-31-m1-abrams-tanks-to-ukraine-555972">After Germany, US announces it will send 31 M1 Abrams tanks to Ukraine</a>

Volodymyr Zelensky, the president of Ukraine, hailed the decision. He had asked for the classification in October to protect the city from Russian bombing.&nbsp;"Today Odessa got UNESCO protection," he said on Twitter.&nbsp;"I'm grateful to partners who help protect our pearl from the Russian invaders' attacks," he added.

Since the Russian invasion, Ukrainians have hastily tried to use sandbags and barriers to try to safeguard the city's landmarks and structures.

The site was also added to the List of World Heritage in Danger, which UNESCO says "gives it access to reinforced technical and financial international assistance" to protect or, if necessary, rehabilitate it.

The agency also stated that it has already assisted with repairs for damage sustained at the Odessa Museum of Fine Arts and the Odessa Museum of Modern Art since the beginning of the Russia-Ukraine war.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The ancient centre of Odessa, a port city in Ukraine that is sometimes referred to as "the pearl of the Black Sea," was added to UNESCO's World Heritage List on Wednesday (January 25) despite opposition from Russia.

The ancient centre of Odessa, a port city in Ukraine that is sometimes referred to as "the pearl of the Black Sea," was added to UNESCO's World Heritage List on Wednesday (January 25) despite opposition from Russia. With six votes in favour, one against, and 14 abstentions, the world heritage committee's 21 member nations accepted the city's designation as a world historic site. Russia, which invaded Ukraine in February last year, repeatedly tried to delay the vote to recognise the site's "outstanding universal value" and "the duty of all humanity to protect it". "While the war continues, this inscription embodies our collective determination to ensure that this city, which has always surmounted global upheavals, is preserved from further destruction," said UNESCO director-general Audrey Azoulay after the decision. Also read | After Germany, US announces it will send 31 M1 Abrams tanks to Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky, the president of Ukraine, hailed the decision. He had asked for the classification in October to protect the city from Russian bombing. "Today Odessa got UNESCO protection," he said on Twitter. "I'm grateful to partners who help protect our pearl from the Russian invaders' attacks," he added. Since the Russian invasion, Ukrainians have hastily tried to use sandbags and barriers to try to safeguard the city's landmarks and structures. The site was also added to the List of World Heritage in Danger, which UNESCO says "gives it access to reinforced technical and financial international assistance" to protect or, if necessary, rehabilitate it. The agency also stated that it has already assisted with repairs for damage sustained at the Odessa Museum of Fine Arts and the Odessa Museum of Modern Art since the beginning of the Russia-Ukraine war. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ukrainian port city of Odessa wins UNESCO status despite Russian resistance

The Chief Minister of Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Monday that the Centre has nominated the maidams of Ahom Kingdom in Charaideo to seek a UNESCO World Heritage Site tag for the historic site. These maidams were chosen out of 52 sites for the UNESCO World Heritage Site tag for the cultural heritage category.

The nomination of the Charaideo maidams comes at the time when India is celebrating the 400th birth anniversary of Lachit Barphukan, who was the legendary general from the Ahom Kingdom who fought the Mughals in 1671.&nbsp;

<h2>What are Charaideo Maidams?</h2>

The Charaideo Maidams are the representation of the late medieval mound burial tradition of the Tai Ahom community in Assam. The Ahoms ruled Assam for more than 600 years after which the British took over Assam in 1826 ending their rule over the region. The Charaideo is situated more than 400 km east of Guwahati. Guwahati was the first capital of the Ahom dynasty and was founded by Chao Lung Siu-Ka-Pha in 1253.&nbsp;

Till now, 386 Maidams are explored and 90 royal burials have been preserved at Charaideo. These burials are seen as showpieces of the mound burial tradition of the Ahom community. After the 18th century, Ahoms adopted the Hindu cremation method and began to entomb the cremated bones and ashes in a Maidam at Charaideo.

Currently, the Maidams are managed by the Archaeological Survey of India and the State Department of Archaeology under the Ancient Monuments and Sites Remains Act 1958, and under the Assam Ancient Monuments and Records Act 1959.&nbsp;

<h2>Who are the Ahom people?</h2>

The Ahom, also known as the Tai-Ahom, are an ethnic group found in the Indian states of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. Members of this group are mixed descendants of the Tai people who arrived in Assam's Brahmaputra valley in 1228 and the local indigenous people who joined them over time. Sukaphaa, the Tai group's leader, and his 9000 followers founded the Ahom kingdom (1228-1826 CE), which ruled over much of the Brahmaputra Valley in modern Assam until 1826.

<h2>Ahom Kingdom&nbsp;(1228–1826)</h2>

The Ahom Dynasty, a late medieval kingdom, was established in Assam's Brahmaputra Valley in 1228. It was known for its multi-ethnic mix and for successfully retaining its autonomy for 600 years, even fighting the Mughal Empire to keep its independence at one point. Chaolung Sukaphaa, the first King of the Ahom Kingdom, crossed the Patkai mountainous region to reach the Brahmaputra valley and lay the foundations of the Ahom Dynasty.

<h2>How did the Ahom Kingdom expand?</h2>

Sukaphaa and his followers obtained wet rice farming technology and shared it with the residents of the region. This technology increased agricultural output in the region. The Ahom way of life and government gradually absorbed other people in the region, such as the Barahi, resulting in a large population increase. The absorption process lasted until the Ahom Empire grew large enough to accept other ethnic groups in the 16th century.

Ahoms vs Mughals conflict of 1662

The Ahom Dynasty faced its first significant conflict with an imperial force, the Mughal Empire, in 1615. In 1662, the Mughals conquered the Ahom capital of Garhgaon but were defeated in subsequent battles. Finally, in 1671, the Ahoms, led by Lachit Borphukan, successfully repelled a strong Mughal assault, extending their borders west to the Manas River.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The Chief Minister of Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Monday that the Centre has nominated the maidams of Ahom Kingdom in Charaideo to seek a UNESCO World Heritage Site tag for the historic site.

The Chief Minister of Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Monday that the Centre has nominated the maidams of Ahom Kingdom in Charaideo to seek a UNESCO World Heritage Site tag for the historic site. These maidams were chosen out of 52 sites for the UNESCO World Heritage Site tag for the cultural heritage category. The nomination of the Charaideo maidams comes at the time when India is celebrating the 400th birth anniversary of Lachit Barphukan, who was the legendary general from the Ahom Kingdom who fought the Mughals in 1671. What are Charaideo Maidams? The Charaideo Maidams are the representation of the late medieval mound burial tradition of the Tai Ahom community in Assam. The Ahoms ruled Assam for more than 600 years after which the British took over Assam in 1826 ending their rule over the region. The Charaideo is situated more than 400 km east of Guwahati. Guwahati was the first capital of the Ahom dynasty and was founded by Chao Lung Siu-Ka-Pha in 1253. Till now, 386 Maidams are explored and 90 royal burials have been preserved at Charaideo. These burials are seen as showpieces of the mound burial tradition of the Ahom community. After the 18th century, Ahoms adopted the Hindu cremation method and began to entomb the cremated bones and ashes in a Maidam at Charaideo. Currently, the Maidams are managed by the Archaeological Survey of India and the State Department of Archaeology under the Ancient Monuments and Sites Remains Act 1958, and under the Assam Ancient Monuments and Records Act 1959. Who are the Ahom people? The Ahom, also known as the Tai-Ahom, are an ethnic group found in the Indian states of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. Members of this group are mixed descendants of the Tai people who arrived in Assam's Brahmaputra valley in 1228 and the local indigenous people who joined them over time. Sukaphaa, the Tai group's leader, and his 9000 followers founded the Ahom kingdom (1228-1826 CE), which ruled over much of the Brahmaputra Valley in modern Assam until 1826. Ahom Kingdom (1228–1826) The Ahom Dynasty, a late medieval kingdom, was established in Assam's Brahmaputra Valley in 1228. It was known for its multi-ethnic mix and for successfully retaining its autonomy for 600 years, even fighting the Mughal Empire to keep its independence at one point. Chaolung Sukaphaa, the first King of the Ahom Kingdom, crossed the Patkai mountainous region to reach the Brahmaputra valley and lay the foundations of the Ahom Dynasty. How did the Ahom Kingdom expand? Sukaphaa and his followers obtained wet rice farming technology and shared it with the residents of the region. This technology increased agricultural output in the region. The Ahom way of life and government gradually absorbed other people in the region, such as the Barahi, resulting in a large population increase. The absorption process lasted until the Ahom Empire grew large enough to accept other ethnic groups in the 16th century. Ahoms vs Mughals conflict of 1662 The Ahom Dynasty faced its first significant conflict with an imperial force, the Mughal Empire, in 1615. In 1662, the Mughals conquered the Ahom capital of Garhgaon but were defeated in subsequent battles. Finally, in 1671, the Ahoms, led by Lachit Borphukan, successfully repelled a strong Mughal assault, extending their borders west to the Manas River.

Assam's 'Maidams' as India's entry for UNESCO tag: A look into Ahom kingdom, its history and significance

UNESCO has inscribed a traditional connection between camels and the inhabitants of the Arabian Peninsula in its list of intangible cultural heritage.&nbsp;The UN cultural agency said that a skilled camel herder can use his voice to soothe the animal, make it kneel and change directions as they trudge together through the desert sands with a signal, AFP reported.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/what-is-the-purpose-of-dogs-tail-study-shows-it-does-not-help-in-manoeuvres-but-only-a-communication-tool-548935">Also read |&nbsp;Why does the dog wag its tail? It's only a communication tool, doesn't help in manoeuvres</a>

The cries of camel herder Hamad al-Marri have been recognised as a means of communication with his animals. The cries mean nothing to the untrained animals.

The main motive behind UNESCO listing the communication is to protect the "Alheda'a" and provide an opportunity for its development.&nbsp;

It said, "Herders train their camels to recognise the difference between right and left, to open their mouths when asked, and to kneel down to be ridden."

Known as the ‘ship of the deserts’, camels have been a mode of transportation for long in Saudi Arabia.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kenya-eco-friendly-tourism-sees-tourists-riding-camels-when-on-safari-477918">Also read |&nbsp;Kenya: Eco-friendly tourism sees tourists riding camels when on safari</a>

Jasser al-Harbash, CEO of the Saudi Arabia Heritage, said there have been rock carvings that painted camels, that tell the story of camels.&nbsp;

Marri, a civil servant who owns around 100 camels, said there is a special language between the camel and its owner. He added that a camel recognises its owner's voice and responds to it immediately, but if someone else calls it, it won't respond.&nbsp;

As per the world organisation, Alheda'a can be deployed for a range of tasks such as bringing together the scattered herd, making them kneel and soothing them as they drink water.

(With inputs from agencies)

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UNESCO has inscribed a traditional connection between camels and the inhabitants of the Arabian Peninsula in its list of intangible cultural heritage. The UN cultural agency said that a skilled camel herder can use his voice to soothe the animal, make it kneel and change directions as they trudge together through the desert sands with a signal, AFP reported.

UNESCO has inscribed a traditional connection between camels and the inhabitants of the Arabian Peninsula in its list of intangible cultural heritage. The UN cultural agency said that a skilled camel herder can use his voice to soothe the animal, make it kneel and change directions as they trudge together through the desert sands with a signal, AFP reported. Also read | Why does the dog wag its tail? It's only a communication tool, doesn't help in manoeuvres The cries of camel herder Hamad al-Marri have been recognised as a means of communication with his animals. The cries mean nothing to the untrained animals. The main motive behind UNESCO listing the communication is to protect the "Alheda'a" and provide an opportunity for its development. It said, "Herders train their camels to recognise the difference between right and left, to open their mouths when asked, and to kneel down to be ridden." Known as the ‘ship of the deserts’, camels have been a mode of transportation for long in Saudi Arabia. Also read | Kenya: Eco-friendly tourism sees tourists riding camels when on safari Jasser al-Harbash, CEO of the Saudi Arabia Heritage, said there have been rock carvings that painted camels, that tell the story of camels. Marri, a civil servant who owns around 100 camels, said there is a special language between the camel and its owner. He added that a camel recognises its owner's voice and responds to it immediately, but if someone else calls it, it won't respond. As per the world organisation, Alheda'a can be deployed for a range of tasks such as bringing together the scattered herd, making them kneel and soothing them as they drink water. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Alheda’a: Saudi herders use ‘special language’ for camel training

Known as Alhedaa, the oral tradition of “camel whispering” has now been awarded special status on the Unesco List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The melody, unique to each herder, is passed down from generation to generation and is performed at important social events, including weddings and graduations.

Bedouin camel whisperers honoured by Unesco

The French baguette has been added to UNESCO's 'intangible cultural heritage' list. What makes this bread so special? Molly Gambhir tells you.

Gravitas: UNESCO adds the French baguette to cultural heritage list. Here's why

Who would have thought that the simple traditional French loaf will someday earn a spot on UNESCO's intangible cultural heritage list and the French President himself would call it 250 grams of magic and perfection. With this announcement, the age-old simple bread is suddenly grabbing the world's attention.

WION Fineprint: French Baguettes on UN's cultural heritage list

Australia's Great Barrier Reef suffered its most extensive coral bleaching event in March, with scientists fearing the coral recovers less each time after the third bleaching in five years.

February 2020 was the hottest month on record since records began in 1900, Terry Hughes, Director of the ARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies at James Cook University, told Reuters.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/cities-spot-mountain-ranges-from-far-during-lockdown-300332">Cities spot mountain ranges from far during lockdown</a>

"We saw record-breaking temperatures all along the length of the Great Barrier Reef, there wasn't a cool portion in the north, or a cool portion in the south this time around," Hughes said.

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/we-need-to-rethink-our-role-on-planet-if-corals-cannot-be-saved-538687">'We need to rethink our role on planet if corals cannot be saved'</a>

"The whole Barrier Reef was hot so the bleaching we have seen this year is the most extensive so far."

<img alt="Australia's Great Barrier Reef " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="65b1d21c-62ec-4d79-ad78-3f155a4deef3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2856%29_5.jpg" /> 
Australia's Great Barrier Reef|Reuters

Hughes added that he is now almost certain that the Reef is not going to recover to what it looked like even five years ago, not to mention thirty years ago.

If the global warming trends continue the Great Barrier Reef will be destroyed, he said.

"We will have some sort of tropical ecosystem, but it won't look like coral reef, there might be more seaweed, more sponges, a lot less coral, but it will be a very different ecosystem."

The Great Barrier Reef, covering 348,000 square kilometres (134363 sq miles) was world heritage listed in 1981 as the most extensive and spectacular coral reef ecosystem on the planet, according to the UNESCO website.

Australia's Great Barrier Reef suffered its most extensive coral bleaching event in March, with scientists fearing the coral recovers less each time after the third bleaching in five years.

Australia's Great Barrier Reef suffered its most extensive coral bleaching event in March, with scientists fearing the coral recovers less each time after the third bleaching in five years. February 2020 was the hottest month on record since records began in 1900, Terry Hughes, Director of the ARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies at James Cook University, told Reuters. Also see: Cities spot mountain ranges from far during lockdown "We saw record-breaking temperatures all along the length of the Great Barrier Reef, there wasn't a cool portion in the north, or a cool portion in the south this time around," Hughes said. WATCH | 'We need to rethink our role on planet if corals cannot be saved' "The whole Barrier Reef was hot so the bleaching we have seen this year is the most extensive so far." Australia's Great Barrier Reef|Reuters Hughes added that he is now almost certain that the Reef is not going to recover to what it looked like even five years ago, not to mention thirty years ago. If the global warming trends continue the Great Barrier Reef will be destroyed, he said. "We will have some sort of tropical ecosystem, but it won't look like coral reef, there might be more seaweed, more sponges, a lot less coral, but it will be a very different ecosystem." The Great Barrier Reef, covering 348,000 square kilometres (134363 sq miles) was world heritage listed in 1981 as the most extensive and spectacular coral reef ecosystem on the planet, according to the UNESCO website.

Australia's Great Barrier Reef suffers most extensive coral bleaching

Several UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Yellowstone and Kilimanjaro National Park, will likely lose their glaciers by the year 2050, the UN body warned&nbsp;and urged countries to take immediate action to safeguard the remaining ones.

A survey of 18,600 glaciers at 50 World Heritage Sites, totaling over 66,000 square kilometres (25,000 square miles), concluded that glaciers at a third of the sites were "condemned to perish," prompting the warning.

The study "shows these glaciers have been retreating at an accelerated rate since 2000 due to CO2 emissions, which are warming temperatures", UNESCO said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/famous-moai-statues-irreparably-damaged-due-to-easter-island-fire-523300">Famous Moai statues 'irreparably' damaged due to Easter Island fire</a>

According to the EPA, the glaciers were losing 58 billion tonnes of ice year, or around five percent of the reported rise in sea level, which is equal to the total annual water demand of France and Spain.

"Glaciers in a third of the 50 World Heritage sites are condemned to disappear by 2050, regardless of efforts to limit temperature increases," UNESCO said.

"But it is still possible to save the glaciers in the remaining two thirds of sites if the rise in temperatures does not exceed 1.5°C compared to the pre-industrial period."

Also watch |&nbsp;WION Climate Tracker: Climate change threatens Egypt's fertile Nile Delta

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Countries have agreed to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, but given current emission patterns, this target is likely to be missed.

"This report is a call to action," said UNESCO head Audrey Azoulay, ahead of the COP27 climate summit in Egypt starting on Monday.

"Only a rapid reduction in our CO2 emissions levels can save glaciers and the exceptional biodiversity that depends on them. COP27 will have a crucial role to help find solutions to this issue."

According to UNESCO, all of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/african-union-ethiopian-government-and-tigrayan-forces-agree-to-end-hostilities-530675">Africa's</a> World Heritage Sites, including Mount Kenya and Kilimanjaro National Park, would likely be devoid of glaciers by the year 2050.

In three decades, it's likely that some of the glaciers in Europe's Pyrenees and Dolomites will also be gone.

The same was true of the glaciers in the American national parks of Yosemite and Yellowstone.

One of the top 10 concerns from climate change, according to a study from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change released in February, is the melting of ice and snow.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Several UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Yellowstone and Kilimanjaro National Park, will likely lose their glaciers by the year 2050, the UN body warned and urged countries to take immediate action to safeguard the remaining ones.

Several UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Yellowstone and Kilimanjaro National Park, will likely lose their glaciers by the year 2050, the UN body warned and urged countries to take immediate action to safeguard the remaining ones. A survey of 18,600 glaciers at 50 World Heritage Sites, totaling over 66,000 square kilometres (25,000 square miles), concluded that glaciers at a third of the sites were "condemned to perish," prompting the warning. The study "shows these glaciers have been retreating at an accelerated rate since 2000 due to CO2 emissions, which are warming temperatures", UNESCO said. Also read | Famous Moai statues 'irreparably' damaged due to Easter Island fire According to the EPA, the glaciers were losing 58 billion tonnes of ice year, or around five percent of the reported rise in sea level, which is equal to the total annual water demand of France and Spain. "Glaciers in a third of the 50 World Heritage sites are condemned to disappear by 2050, regardless of efforts to limit temperature increases," UNESCO said. "But it is still possible to save the glaciers in the remaining two thirds of sites if the rise in temperatures does not exceed 1.5°C compared to the pre-industrial period." Also watch | WION Climate Tracker: Climate change threatens Egypt's fertile Nile Delta Countries have agreed to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, but given current emission patterns, this target is likely to be missed. "This report is a call to action," said UNESCO head Audrey Azoulay, ahead of the COP27 climate summit in Egypt starting on Monday. "Only a rapid reduction in our CO2 emissions levels can save glaciers and the exceptional biodiversity that depends on them. COP27 will have a crucial role to help find solutions to this issue." According to UNESCO, all of Africa's World Heritage Sites, including Mount Kenya and Kilimanjaro National Park, would likely be devoid of glaciers by the year 2050. In three decades, it's likely that some of the glaciers in Europe's Pyrenees and Dolomites will also be gone. The same was true of the glaciers in the American national parks of Yosemite and Yellowstone. One of the top 10 concerns from climate change, according to a study from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change released in February, is the melting of ice and snow. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UNESCO: Glaciers on Kilimanjaro and Yellowstone to disappear by 2050; countries urged to take immediate action

Meanwhile its festive season in India and people across the country are celebrating Durga Puja. It's a 10-day festival which celebrates the deity goddess Durga. UNESCO has recognised Durga festival as a 'global event'. Watch this report!

The festive spirit of Durga Puja: Innovative 'Pandals' attract big crowds

Unequal access to new technologies, illicit trafficking and other threats to cultural heritage are among the issues on the agenda for an international culture ministers meeting in Mexico on Wednesday.

Representatives of around 190 UNESCO member states will participate in the three-day World Conference on Cultural Policies and Sustainable Development in Mexico City.

The Covid-19 pandemic has shown that culture is vital for public health, according to conference coordinator Pablo Raphael.

"No one would have been able to survive the confinement and stress... without books, music and cinema," he said.

But the health crisis also laid bare technological inequalities between different communities, Mexican Culture Minister Alejandra Frausto told AFP.

One of the meeting's objectives is to find ways to guarantee artists access to technologies to share their work.

The final declaration is expected to include a call to recognize culture as a "global public good" that benefits all of the world's citizens.

The aim is also for the United Nations' sustainable development goals to contain a "reasonable objective" in terms of culture, Frausto said.

Two issues on the agenda -- defending communities' intellectual property and the restitution of cultural property -- are of particular interest to Mexico and other Latin American countries.

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador has criticized foreign auctions of items that form part of other nations' cultural heritage as "immoral."

Since 2019, Mexico has managed to retrieve thousands of pre-Hispanic archaeological pieces from abroad that were in private collections or set to be auctioned.

Some were handed over voluntarily while others, such as items in Italy, were recovered in police raids.

Mexico also regularly denounces what it calls plagiarism&nbsp;by foreign fashion houses of the motifs, embroidery and colors of its Indigenous communities.

The Latin American nation has lodged complaints of alleged violation of intellectual property against major clothing brands including Zara and Mango in the past.

The government of war-torn Ukraine will participate by video in a session about "heritage and cultural diversity in crisis."

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Unequal access to new technologies, illicit trafficking and other threats to cultural heritage are among the issues on the agenda for an international culture ministers meeting in Mexico on Wednesday.

Unequal access to new technologies, illicit trafficking and other threats to cultural heritage are among the issues on the agenda for an international culture ministers meeting in Mexico on Wednesday. Representatives of around 190 UNESCO member states will participate in the three-day World Conference on Cultural Policies and Sustainable Development in Mexico City. The Covid-19 pandemic has shown that culture is vital for public health, according to conference coordinator Pablo Raphael. "No one would have been able to survive the confinement and stress... without books, music and cinema," he said. But the health crisis also laid bare technological inequalities between different communities, Mexican Culture Minister Alejandra Frausto told AFP. One of the meeting's objectives is to find ways to guarantee artists access to technologies to share their work. The final declaration is expected to include a call to recognize culture as a "global public good" that benefits all of the world's citizens. The aim is also for the United Nations' sustainable development goals to contain a "reasonable objective" in terms of culture, Frausto said. Two issues on the agenda -- defending communities' intellectual property and the restitution of cultural property -- are of particular interest to Mexico and other Latin American countries. Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador has criticized foreign auctions of items that form part of other nations' cultural heritage as "immoral." Since 2019, Mexico has managed to retrieve thousands of pre-Hispanic archaeological pieces from abroad that were in private collections or set to be auctioned. Some were handed over voluntarily while others, such as items in Italy, were recovered in police raids. Mexico also regularly denounces what it calls plagiarism by foreign fashion houses of the motifs, embroidery and colors of its Indigenous communities. The Latin American nation has lodged complaints of alleged violation of intellectual property against major clothing brands including Zara and Mango in the past. The government of war-torn Ukraine will participate by video in a session about "heritage and cultural diversity in crisis." WATCH WION LIVE HERE

UNESCO meeting to discuss threats to cultural heritage

In December 2021, `Durga Puja in Kolkata’ was included in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. A team of officials of UNESCO have already arrived in Kolkata to witness the Durga Puja celebrations in person.

UNESCO team in Kolkata to witness the Durga Puja celebrations in person

The cultural arm of the United Nations, UNESCO, declared on Tuesday that it approved Ukraine's application to add the port city of Odesa to the World Heritage List.&nbsp;

Following a meeting between Oleksandr Tkachenko, the minister of culture for Ukraine, and Audrey Azoulay, the director-general of UNESCO, at the organization's Paris headquarters, UNESCO announced that it had organised experts to assist Ukraine so that the nomination could be urgently reviewed by World Heritage Committee member states.&nbsp;

In addition to Kyiv and Lviv, which are also in danger, UNESCO said it now intends to list Odesa on the List of World Heritage in Danger.

UNESCO said that the Black Sea port of Odesa, which is only a few dozen kilometres from the frontlines, has already been hit by artillery fire. The Odesa Museum of Fine Arts, which opened its doors in 1899, had a portion of its enormous glass roof and windows destroyed last month.&nbsp;

Since the start of the war, UNESCO has paid for renovations to both the museum and the Odesa Museum of Modern Art. They will also pay for additional staff members whose job it is to protect the artefacts. Along with providing safety gear, it will assist in digitising artwork.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-meets-iaea-chief-in-kyiv-ahead-of-agencys-visit-to-russian-occupied-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-plant-511601">Zelensky meets IAEA chief in Kyiv ahead of agency's visit to Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant</a>

According to UNESCO, it has already raised close to $7 million for Ukraine and will contribute further money to repair war-related damage to museums as well as additional protective gear.

It will also provide assistance for the "digitisation of at least 1,000 works of art in Odessa as well as the documentary collection of the Odessa State Archives," it said.

The beetroot soup known as borshch was added to Ukraine's list of intangible cultural treasures in July, a decision that Moscow criticised as "xenophobic."

(with inputs from agencies)

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The cultural arm of the United Nations, UNESCO, declared on Tuesday that it approved Ukraine's application to add the port city of Odesa to the World Heritage List.

The cultural arm of the United Nations, UNESCO, declared on Tuesday that it approved Ukraine's application to add the port city of Odesa to the World Heritage List. Following a meeting between Oleksandr Tkachenko, the minister of culture for Ukraine, and Audrey Azoulay, the director-general of UNESCO, at the organization's Paris headquarters, UNESCO announced that it had organised experts to assist Ukraine so that the nomination could be urgently reviewed by World Heritage Committee member states. In addition to Kyiv and Lviv, which are also in danger, UNESCO said it now intends to list Odesa on the List of World Heritage in Danger. UNESCO said that the Black Sea port of Odesa, which is only a few dozen kilometres from the frontlines, has already been hit by artillery fire. The Odesa Museum of Fine Arts, which opened its doors in 1899, had a portion of its enormous glass roof and windows destroyed last month. Since the start of the war, UNESCO has paid for renovations to both the museum and the Odesa Museum of Modern Art. They will also pay for additional staff members whose job it is to protect the artefacts. Along with providing safety gear, it will assist in digitising artwork. Also Read: Zelensky meets IAEA chief in Kyiv ahead of agency's visit to Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant According to UNESCO, it has already raised close to $7 million for Ukraine and will contribute further money to repair war-related damage to museums as well as additional protective gear. It will also provide assistance for the "digitisation of at least 1,000 works of art in Odessa as well as the documentary collection of the Odessa State Archives," it said. The beetroot soup known as borshch was added to Ukraine's list of intangible cultural treasures in July, a decision that Moscow criticised as "xenophobic." (with inputs from agencies)

UNESCO supports Ukraine's bid to put threatened port of Odesa on World Heritage list

Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel received the 2022 Peace Prize on Tuesday, August 23, "in recognition of her efforts to welcome refugees," according to UNESCO.&nbsp;

Merkel received the Félix Houphout-Boigny-UNESCO Peace Prize, according to the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization's Twitter and website, for her "courageous" decision to welcome more than 1.2 million migrants in 2015, particularly those from Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Eritrea.&nbsp;

After 16 years in office, Merkel left her position as head of state of Germany in 2021. The refugee crisis dominated her third term more than any other issue, garnering support from some while drawing criticism from others, and its effects may still be felt today.

A wave of refugees converged on Europe's borders in 2015 as a result of wars in the Middle East, mainly in Syria, Afghanistan, and Iraq.&nbsp;

At a crucial juncture, Merkel opened Germany's borders and is credited with telling the German people, "We can do it," as the nation accepted hundreds of thousands of refugee seekers.&nbsp;

890,000 asylum seekers had reached Germany by the end of 2015, many of whom had not through adequate identity checks. This influx overwhelmed local communities, stoked instability in some areas, and helped boost support for the far-right, anti-immigration Alternative for Germany (AfD) party.

AfD rose to prominence as the opposition forces in Germany in 2015 before losing support once more as a result of Merkel's handling of the COVID-19 controversy.&nbsp;

Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the country's borders were once again opened to hundreds of thousands of people, primarily women and children from that country.

In accordance with the United Nations Charter and the UNESCO Constitution, the prize was established in 1989 to recognise a person, an organisation, or a private or governmental body that has made a major contribution to the promotion, study, safeguarding, or maintenance of peace.&nbsp;

The award is given each year. Other recipients of the honour, according to the website, included Jimmy Carter, Frederik W. De Klerk, and Nelson Mandela.

(with inputs from agencies)

Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel received the 2022 Peace Prize on Tuesday, August 23, "in recognition of her efforts to welcome refugees," according to UNESCO.

Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel received the 2022 Peace Prize on Tuesday, August 23, "in recognition of her efforts to welcome refugees," according to UNESCO. Merkel received the Félix Houphout-Boigny-UNESCO Peace Prize, according to the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization's Twitter and website, for her "courageous" decision to welcome more than 1.2 million migrants in 2015, particularly those from Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Eritrea. After 16 years in office, Merkel left her position as head of state of Germany in 2021. The refugee crisis dominated her third term more than any other issue, garnering support from some while drawing criticism from others, and its effects may still be felt today. A wave of refugees converged on Europe's borders in 2015 as a result of wars in the Middle East, mainly in Syria, Afghanistan, and Iraq. At a crucial juncture, Merkel opened Germany's borders and is credited with telling the German people, "We can do it," as the nation accepted hundreds of thousands of refugee seekers. 890,000 asylum seekers had reached Germany by the end of 2015, many of whom had not through adequate identity checks. This influx overwhelmed local communities, stoked instability in some areas, and helped boost support for the far-right, anti-immigration Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. AfD rose to prominence as the opposition forces in Germany in 2015 before losing support once more as a result of Merkel's handling of the COVID-19 controversy. Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the country's borders were once again opened to hundreds of thousands of people, primarily women and children from that country. In accordance with the United Nations Charter and the UNESCO Constitution, the prize was established in 1989 to recognise a person, an organisation, or a private or governmental body that has made a major contribution to the promotion, study, safeguarding, or maintenance of peace. The award is given each year. Other recipients of the honour, according to the website, included Jimmy Carter, Frederik W. De Klerk, and Nelson Mandela. (with inputs from agencies)

Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel receives UNESCO Peace Prize for accepting refugees

Due to the crisis in Ukraine, the volunteers in the country are trying to keep cultural heritage safe by scanning iconic buildings and monuments. The images are then transformed into 3D digital models which are stored in the cloud.

UNESCO: 70 religious sites, 13 museums destroyed in Ukraine

Officials have acknowledged that a mosque in Iran from the 17th century that is recognised as a masterpiece of architecture has been harmed during restoration efforts. The Shah Mosque in Isfahan, which is a part of a United Nations World Heritage site, is thought to be one of the most magnificent in all of Iran. However, in more recent images, one side appears uneven and the characteristic floral patterns do not line up. Although officials admitted the flaws, they claimed they could be fixed.

Mehdi Pakdel, the project's restorer, blamed the failure on issues with the scaffolding that was employed as well as difficulties brought on by the dome's height of 54 metres (177 feet). The mosque was constructed in Isfahan, the third-largest city in the nation, during a period known as its golden age. It is a magnet for Muslim worshipers and tourists from inside and outside Iran thanks to its remarkable vivid blue and yellow patterned tiles.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sri-lankan-crisis-economy-lessons-india-can-learn-498205">Sri Lankan crisis: Economy lessons India can learn</a>

The mosque is one of four striking structures that make up the huge Naghsh-e Jahan Square, also known as Meidan Imam, in the city's centre. The complex surrounding the square was added to UNESCO's World Heritage Site list in 1979. UNESCO says the mosque is of "particular interest", and "remains the most celebrated example of the colourful architecture which reached its high point in Iran under the Safavid dynasty".

Isfahan is one of the key tourist destinations in the country. As reported by AFP, Alireza Izadi, head of the heritage for the city said, "Supervisors and restorers realised there was damage, especially in the upper part of the dome. We are going to replace the dome tiles because the weight of the scaffolding has damaged their edge."&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Officials have acknowledged that a mosque in Iran from the 17th century that is recognised as a masterpiece of architecture has been harmed during restoration efforts.

Officials have acknowledged that a mosque in Iran from the 17th century that is recognised as a masterpiece of architecture has been harmed during restoration efforts. The Shah Mosque in Isfahan, which is a part of a United Nations World Heritage site, is thought to be one of the most magnificent in all of Iran. However, in more recent images, one side appears uneven and the characteristic floral patterns do not line up. Although officials admitted the flaws, they claimed they could be fixed. Mehdi Pakdel, the project's restorer, blamed the failure on issues with the scaffolding that was employed as well as difficulties brought on by the dome's height of 54 metres (177 feet). The mosque was constructed in Isfahan, the third-largest city in the nation, during a period known as its golden age. It is a magnet for Muslim worshipers and tourists from inside and outside Iran thanks to its remarkable vivid blue and yellow patterned tiles. Also Read: Sri Lankan crisis: Economy lessons India can learn The mosque is one of four striking structures that make up the huge Naghsh-e Jahan Square, also known as Meidan Imam, in the city's centre. The complex surrounding the square was added to UNESCO's World Heritage Site list in 1979. UNESCO says the mosque is of "particular interest", and "remains the most celebrated example of the colourful architecture which reached its high point in Iran under the Safavid dynasty". Isfahan is one of the key tourist destinations in the country. As reported by AFP, Alireza Izadi, head of the heritage for the city said, "Supervisors and restorers realised there was damage, especially in the upper part of the dome. We are going to replace the dome tiles because the weight of the scaffolding has damaged their edge." (with inputs from agencies)

Iran's iconic UNESCO WHS Isfahan's Shah Mosque damaged during restoration

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) on Friday inscribed the culture of cooking borshch soup in Ukraine on its list of endangered cultural heritage, in a move urged by Kyiv but vehemently opposed by Moscow, as reported by AFP.

The culture of Ukrainian borshch cooking "was today inscribed on UNESCO's list of intangible cultural heritage in need of urgent safeguarding" by a UNESCO committee. The decision was approved after a fast-track process prompted by Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the "negative impact on this tradition" caused by the war, UNESCO said.

Ukraine considers borshch -- a thick nourishing soup usually made with beetroot -- as a national dish although it is also widely consumed in Russia, other ex-Soviet countries and Poland. Kyiv hailed the move, with Ukraine's Culture Minister Oleksandr Tkachenko saying on Telegram that "victory in the borshch war is ours... will win both in the war of borshch and in this war."

Adding the soup culture to the UNESCO list aims at mobilising attention to ensure it is preserved despite risks to its existence. The committee noted that the war had "threatened the viability" of the soup culture in Ukraine.

"The displacement of people (poses a threat)... as people are unable not only to cook or grow local vegetables for borshch but also to come together... which undermines the social and cultural well-being of communities," said UNESCO.

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Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova had slammed the move as a bid to make it belong to "one people... one nationality... This is xenophobia," she said. But UNESCO noted that Ukrainian borshch was just a version of a dish popular elsewhere and was essential to daily life in in the country.

"Ukrainian borshch -- the national version of borscht consumed in several countries of the region -- is an integral part of Ukrainian family and community life."

(with inputs from agencies)

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The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) on Friday inscribed the culture of cooking borshch soup in Ukraine on its list of endangered cultural heritage, in a move urged by Kyiv but vehemently opposed by Moscow, as reported by AFP.

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) on Friday inscribed the culture of cooking borshch soup in Ukraine on its list of endangered cultural heritage, in a move urged by Kyiv but vehemently opposed by Moscow, as reported by AFP. The culture of Ukrainian borshch cooking "was today inscribed on UNESCO's list of intangible cultural heritage in need of urgent safeguarding" by a UNESCO committee. The decision was approved after a fast-track process prompted by Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the "negative impact on this tradition" caused by the war, UNESCO said. Ukraine considers borshch -- a thick nourishing soup usually made with beetroot -- as a national dish although it is also widely consumed in Russia, other ex-Soviet countries and Poland. Kyiv hailed the move, with Ukraine's Culture Minister Oleksandr Tkachenko saying on Telegram that "victory in the borshch war is ours... will win both in the war of borshch and in this war." Adding the soup culture to the UNESCO list aims at mobilising attention to ensure it is preserved despite risks to its existence. The committee noted that the war had "threatened the viability" of the soup culture in Ukraine. "The displacement of people (poses a threat)... as people are unable not only to cook or grow local vegetables for borshch but also to come together... which undermines the social and cultural well-being of communities," said UNESCO. Also Read: Twitterati react to Elon Musk's absence on Twitter Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova had slammed the move as a bid to make it belong to "one people... one nationality... This is xenophobia," she said. But UNESCO noted that Ukrainian borshch was just a version of a dish popular elsewhere and was essential to daily life in in the country. "Ukrainian borshch -- the national version of borscht consumed in several countries of the region -- is an integral part of Ukrainian family and community life." (with inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ukrainian borshch soup inscribed as endangered heritage by UNESCO, Russia slams move

French President Emmanuel&nbsp;Macron&nbsp;formally begins his&nbsp;second&nbsp;term&nbsp;in office on Saturday, maintaining suspense about his new government ahead of parliamentary elections next month that will shape his next five years in power.&nbsp;

The 44-year-old scored a solid victory in April 24 presidential polls against far-right leader Marine Le Pen, but still needs a majority in parliament to be able to push through his domestic reform agenda. &nbsp;

The identity of&nbsp;Macron's new government is expected to set the tone for campaigning, with the president suggesting he intends to name only the&nbsp;second&nbsp;woman prime minister in modern French history.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/emmanuel-macrons-party-changes-name-to-renaissance-ahead-of-parliamentary-elections-476791">Emmanuel Macron’s party changes name to ‘Renaissance’ ahead of parliamentary elections</a>

Speculation has been rife in the French media, with UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay and current Labour Minister Elisabeth Borne seen as possible candidates, but&nbsp;Macron&nbsp;has taken his time to name a replacement for outgoing Premier Jean Castex.

"It's been decided, but no one knows who it is," a presidential advisor told AFP on condition of anonymity.

An announcement is expected early next week.&nbsp;

Macron's Republic on the Move party has been renamed Renaissance ahead of the parliamentary polls on June 12 and 19, with several centrist and centre-right parties set to compete under the collective pro-Macron&nbsp;banner of "Together".

France's splintered left-wing parties have also agreed a tie-up under the leadership of former Trotskyist Jean-Luc Melenchon who has set his sights on a parliamentary majority to thwart&nbsp;Macron's plans.

"To go from around 60 MPs (in the current parliament) to a majority is highly improbable, but the dynamic created by the new union could mean they make major progress," Frederic Dabi, head of the Ifop polling group, told AFP this week.

Le Pen's National Rally and France's ailing mainstream right-wing party, the Republicans, are also hoping to bounce back from their disappointment in the presidential election by securing significant representation in the 577-seat parliament.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Macron warns against humiliating Putin

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Combination of&nbsp;challenges

Macron&nbsp;won re-election with promises to continue his broadly pro-business and pro-EU policies of his first&nbsp;term, with more tax cuts, welfare reform and pledged a new emphasis on environmental protection for the next five years.

The biggest change is expected to be in his style of governing.

The former investment banker repeatedly promised "a new method" that will be less top-down a move designed to tackle his reputation for elitism and high-handedness.

"For it to work, there needs to be results that are concrete and visible to people," Bernard Sananes, the head of polling group Elabe, told AFP. "If it's just about showing you're listening to people, that's great but it won't be enough."

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macron-modi-to-hold-closed-door-talks-on-russia-ukraine-war-reports-476410">&nbsp;Macron, Modi to hold closed-door talks on Russia-Ukraine war: Reports</a>

Others wonder whether the more consultative style is in keeping with the temperament of a president who is known to centralise decision-making and once theorised that French people wanted a king-like figure at the centre of national life.&nbsp;

His short-term&nbsp;domestic priority is expected to be tackling a cost-of-living crisis that dominated the presidential campaign due to sharp rises in energy prices and other goods linked to product shortages and the war in Ukraine.

In foreign policy, where&nbsp;Macron&nbsp;will have a free hand as president irrespective of the parliamentary result, he has promised to work to deepen the 27-member European Union while managing the fallout from the Ukraine conflict.

Macron&nbsp;has positioned himself as a key link to the Kremlin through his regular talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, while also authorising weapons deliveries to Ukraine and offering the partly occupied country his full support.

"Rarely has our world and our country been confronted with such a combination of&nbsp;challenges,"&nbsp;Macron&nbsp;said as he was inaugurated for his&nbsp;second&nbsp;term&nbsp;on May 7.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

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French President Emmanuel Macron formally begins his second term in office on Saturday, maintaining suspense about his new government ahead of parliamentary elections next month that will shape his next five years in power.

French President Emmanuel Macron formally begins his second term in office on Saturday, maintaining suspense about his new government ahead of parliamentary elections next month that will shape his next five years in power. The 44-year-old scored a solid victory in April 24 presidential polls against far-right leader Marine Le Pen, but still needs a majority in parliament to be able to push through his domestic reform agenda. The identity of Macron's new government is expected to set the tone for campaigning, with the president suggesting he intends to name only the second woman prime minister in modern French history. Also read | Emmanuel Macron’s party changes name to ‘Renaissance’ ahead of parliamentary elections Speculation has been rife in the French media, with UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay and current Labour Minister Elisabeth Borne seen as possible candidates, but Macron has taken his time to name a replacement for outgoing Premier Jean Castex. "It's been decided, but no one knows who it is," a presidential advisor told AFP on condition of anonymity. An announcement is expected early next week. Macron's Republic on the Move party has been renamed Renaissance ahead of the parliamentary polls on June 12 and 19, with several centrist and centre-right parties set to compete under the collective pro-Macron banner of "Together". France's splintered left-wing parties have also agreed a tie-up under the leadership of former Trotskyist Jean-Luc Melenchon who has set his sights on a parliamentary majority to thwart Macron's plans. "To go from around 60 MPs (in the current parliament) to a majority is highly improbable, but the dynamic created by the new union could mean they make major progress," Frederic Dabi, head of the Ifop polling group, told AFP this week. Le Pen's National Rally and France's ailing mainstream right-wing party, the Republicans, are also hoping to bounce back from their disappointment in the presidential election by securing significant representation in the 577-seat parliament. Watch | Gravitas: Macron warns against humiliating Putin Combination of challenges Macron won re-election with promises to continue his broadly pro-business and pro-EU policies of his first term, with more tax cuts, welfare reform and pledged a new emphasis on environmental protection for the next five years. The biggest change is expected to be in his style of governing. The former investment banker repeatedly promised "a new method" that will be less top-down a move designed to tackle his reputation for elitism and high-handedness. "For it to work, there needs to be results that are concrete and visible to people," Bernard Sananes, the head of polling group Elabe, told AFP. "If it's just about showing you're listening to people, that's great but it won't be enough." Also read | Macron, Modi to hold closed-door talks on Russia-Ukraine war: Reports Others wonder whether the more consultative style is in keeping with the temperament of a president who is known to centralise decision-making and once theorised that French people wanted a king-like figure at the centre of national life. His short-term domestic priority is expected to be tackling a cost-of-living crisis that dominated the presidential campaign due to sharp rises in energy prices and other goods linked to product shortages and the war in Ukraine. In foreign policy, where Macron will have a free hand as president irrespective of the parliamentary result, he has promised to work to deepen the 27-member European Union while managing the fallout from the Ukraine conflict. Macron has positioned himself as a key link to the Kremlin through his regular talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, while also authorising weapons deliveries to Ukraine and offering the partly occupied country his full support. "Rarely has our world and our country been confronted with such a combination of challenges," Macron said as he was inaugurated for his second term on May 7. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

French President Emmanuel Macron starts second term with challenges mounting

India’s Taj Mahal is currently the most searched UNESCO world heritage site in the world right now.

The world heritage sites around the world, which are recognised by United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization for their special place in world culture, has always been a major attraction for tourists around the world but the Taj Mahal has emerged as a major favourite.

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There are 1,154 sites around the world which have been recognised by UNESCO for their architecture, importance and also cultural significance. The Taj Mahal was commissioned in 1632 by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan and is well known for its majestic architectural genius.

According to the Zitango Travel’s data, the historic monument is India was searched around 1.4 million times in a single month. The monument, which is visited by thousands of people every day, was around 300,000 times more searched than the second placed Machu Picchu in Peru.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/to-end-contempt-of-court-order-us-judge-tells-donald-trump-to-meet-conditions-pay-110000-in-fines-478258" hreflang="en">To end contempt order, US judge tells Trump to meet conditions, pay $110,000</a>

The other major monuments which were also searched around the world were Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, the Stonehenge in England and the Statue of Liberty in the United States of America.

Here's the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites according to public interest -

1. Taj Mahal (14,00,000) – India

2. Machu Picchu (11,00,000) – Peru

3. Rio de Janeiro (8,24,000) – Brazil

4. Yellowstone National Park (7,93,000) – the USA

5. Stonehenge (7,82,000) – the UK

6. Statue of Liberty (7,57, 000) – the USA

7. Petra (5,75,000) – Jordan

8. Cinque Terre (5,50,000) – Italy

9. Palace of Versailles (4,64,000) – France

10. Chichen Itza (4,45,000) – Mexico

India’s Taj Mahal is currently the most searched UNESCO world heritage site in the world right now. The world heritage sites around the world, which are recognised by United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization for their special place in world culture, has always been a major attraction for tourists around the world but the Taj Mahal has emerged as a major favourite.

India’s Taj Mahal is currently the most searched UNESCO world heritage site in the world right now. The world heritage sites around the world, which are recognised by United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization for their special place in world culture, has always been a major attraction for tourists around the world but the Taj Mahal has emerged as a major favourite. Also read | Saudi Aramco surpasses Apple; is now world’s most valued company There are 1,154 sites around the world which have been recognised by UNESCO for their architecture, importance and also cultural significance. The Taj Mahal was commissioned in 1632 by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan and is well known for its majestic architectural genius. According to the Zitango Travel’s data, the historic monument is India was searched around 1.4 million times in a single month. The monument, which is visited by thousands of people every day, was around 300,000 times more searched than the second placed Machu Picchu in Peru. Also read | To end contempt order, US judge tells Trump to meet conditions, pay $110,000 The other major monuments which were also searched around the world were Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, the Stonehenge in England and the Statue of Liberty in the United States of America. Here's the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites according to public interest - 1. Taj Mahal (14,00,000) – India 2. Machu Picchu (11,00,000) – Peru 3. Rio de Janeiro (8,24,000) – Brazil 4. Yellowstone National Park (7,93,000) – the USA 5. Stonehenge (7,82,000) – the UK 6. Statue of Liberty (7,57, 000) – the USA 7. Petra (5,75,000) – Jordan 8. Cinque Terre (5,50,000) – Italy 9. Palace of Versailles (4,64,000) – France 10. Chichen Itza (4,45,000) – Mexico

Taj Mahal becomes most searched UNESCO World Heritage Site - See entire list

In a significant initiative towards boosting scientific temper and enthusiasm for space technology in the young citizens of Seychelles, an Indian organization facilitated the launch of Seychelles' first-ever balloon satellite.

Completely funded by UNESCO, this project dubbed 'Mission Payanke' began with a four-member team from 'Spacekidz India' training the school students from the African nation in satellite fabrication, related fields, and helping them execute the launch and recovery of the balloon satellite weighing 2.5 kg.&nbsp;

According to Dr. Srimathy Kesan, Founder &amp; CEO of Spacekidz India, their four-member team held a 11-day workshop (from April 19-30) for a group of 30 students, who hailed from humble backgrounds in the archipelagic nation. The programme imparted training in the design, fabrication, and launching of a balloon satellite, branches of engineering such as electronics, electrical, computer science, mechanical, besides the tracking, telemetry, and telecommand of the launched satellite.

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Students of <a href="https://twitter.com/visitseychelles?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@visitseychelles</a> seen launching their country's first-ever balloon satellite, after 11-day hands-on training from SpaceKidz India, in a <a href="https://twitter.com/UNESCO?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UNESCO</a> funded initiative 
 
Balloon sat reached 73K feet &amp; was recovered. It's aimed at promoting <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/STEMeducation?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#STEMeducation</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hci_seychelles?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@hci_seychelles</a> <a href="https://t.co/xEJgJsnFd0">pic.twitter.com/xEJgJsnFd0</a>
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Responding to a query from WION, Dr. Kesan elaborated that the 2.5kg satellite that was launched using a helium balloon, carried sensors to measure radiation, pressure, temperatures, and other student-built payloads and LoRa module(meant for wireless, Long Range communication).

"The helium balloon with the satellite was attached to a parachute and then launched to reach an altitude ranging between 70,000-1,00,000feet, where data collection about upper atmosphere and near-space can be conducted. In his case, our balloon reached 73,000 feet and then expanded and burst, only to be carried down slowly by the attached parachute. All through the journey, we had an onboard 360-degree camera giving us live aerial photos and data via the Slow-scan television transmission technique" she explained.&nbsp;

Later, the satellite which happened to have landed on a hillock was located using GPS and later spotted using a drone, following which the payload was recovered. According to SpaceKidz, this is the first time that an Indian aerospace organization has been abroad and launched balloon satellites for educational purposes.

Conducted in the presence of the Vice President and other senior Government officials of Seychelles and Gen Dabir Singh Suhag(retd), the Indian High Commissioner to Seychelles, this initiative provides impetus to Seychelles' national effort of building a STEM(Science, Technology, Engineering AND Math) Research Park and experimenting with rockets, in the coming years.&nbsp;

Watch WION's live TV:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

In a significant initiative towards boosting scientific temper and enthusiasm for space technology in the young citizens of Seychelles, an Indian organization facilitated the launch of Seychelles' first-ever balloon satellite.

In a significant initiative towards boosting scientific temper and enthusiasm for space technology in the young citizens of Seychelles, an Indian organization facilitated the launch of Seychelles' first-ever balloon satellite. Completely funded by UNESCO, this project dubbed 'Mission Payanke' began with a four-member team from 'Spacekidz India' training the school students from the African nation in satellite fabrication, related fields, and helping them execute the launch and recovery of the balloon satellite weighing 2.5 kg. According to Dr. Srimathy Kesan, Founder & CEO of Spacekidz India, their four-member team held a 11-day workshop (from April 19-30) for a group of 30 students, who hailed from humble backgrounds in the archipelagic nation. The programme imparted training in the design, fabrication, and launching of a balloon satellite, branches of engineering such as electronics, electrical, computer science, mechanical, besides the tracking, telemetry, and telecommand of the launched satellite. Students of @visitseychelles seen launching their country's first-ever balloon satellite, after 11-day hands-on training from SpaceKidz India, in a @UNESCO funded initiative Balloon sat reached 73K feet & was recovered. It's aimed at promoting #STEMeducation @hci_seychelles pic.twitter.com/xEJgJsnFd0 — Sidharth.M.P (@sdhrthmp) April 30, 2022 × Responding to a query from WION, Dr. Kesan elaborated that the 2.5kg satellite that was launched using a helium balloon, carried sensors to measure radiation, pressure, temperatures, and other student-built payloads and LoRa module(meant for wireless, Long Range communication). "The helium balloon with the satellite was attached to a parachute and then launched to reach an altitude ranging between 70,000-1,00,000feet, where data collection about upper atmosphere and near-space can be conducted. In his case, our balloon reached 73,000 feet and then expanded and burst, only to be carried down slowly by the attached parachute. All through the journey, we had an onboard 360-degree camera giving us live aerial photos and data via the Slow-scan television transmission technique" she explained. Later, the satellite which happened to have landed on a hillock was located using GPS and later spotted using a drone, following which the payload was recovered. According to SpaceKidz, this is the first time that an Indian aerospace organization has been abroad and launched balloon satellites for educational purposes. Conducted in the presence of the Vice President and other senior Government officials of Seychelles and Gen Dabir Singh Suhag(retd), the Indian High Commissioner to Seychelles, this initiative provides impetus to Seychelles' national effort of building a STEM(Science, Technology, Engineering AND Math) Research Park and experimenting with rockets, in the coming years. Watch WION's live TV:

UNESCO funds launch of Seychelles first-ever balloon satellite

In Pics | Witness how soul expresses itself on this International Dance Day

UNESCO's global geoparks are landscapes of big significance especially geologically, they seek to combine sustainable development and conservation by involving local communities. In the latest, UNESCO has announced that it is now designating eight more new sites as global geoparks spread across seven countries.

Sustainable development key part of UNESCO'S 8 global geoparks

UNESCO global geoparks are landscapes of geological significance, they seek to combine sustainable development and conservation by involving local communities. In the latest, UNESCO has announced that it is designating eight new sites as global geoparks in seven countries.

46 countries in the world have global geoparks

In a fascinating feat, five Ancient tombs were discovered at a UNESCO heritage site in Egypt. Authorities say that tombs date back to Egypt's old kingdom.

5 Ancient tombs discovered at a UNESCO heritage site in Egypt

There is no doubt that the future is female. Every year on March 8, we celebrate International Women’s Day and this year it’s on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Women are an important part of the society. They are strong, independent, fearless, divine, compassionate just like the song written by Beyonce 'Run the World (Girls),' and this day is a reminder of the same.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-womens-day-movies-that-celebrate-powerful-sheroes-in-indian-cinema-459800">Women's Day: Movies that celebrate powerful sheroes in Indian cinema</a>

Well, every day is Women’s Day. Each day, women are overcoming all sorts of obstacles, breaking rules to achieve their goals, dreams, with utmost determination and belief, seeking to make their life better and most importantly ensure gender equality.

This day marks the historic journey women have taken globally to make their lives better, to have their own spot to shine. Even though so much has been achieved, the journey still has a long way to go and so much that needs to be done.&nbsp;

Women’s day is not associated with just one country, group or community rather it’s the essence of empowering women globally.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/this-womens-day-watch-these-iconic-shows-that-celebrate-powerful-female-protagonists-459812">This Women's Day, watch these iconic shows that celebrate powerful female protagonists</a>

HISTORY:

According to UNSECO, International Women’s Day emerged in early 20th century. During 1908, there was a continuous debate for shorter work hours and inequity faced by the female labourers. Later, almost 15,000 women marched through New York City demanding decreased working hours, right to vote, and the push for this became louder especially among those working in harsh conditions.

The United States observed the inaugural Women’s Day in 1909.&nbsp; 
Copenhagen hosted an international meeting of all working women in 1910.&nbsp;

Austria, Denmark, Germany and Switzerland celebrated their first Women’s Day on March 19, 1911.

Women in Russia protested raising their slogan “Bread and Butter” and this movement led them to their first women’s day on February 23 during 1913 and 1914.

Later International Women’s Day was globally declared to be celebrated on March 8.

Watch |&nbsp;International Women's Day: How women protest in Peru against gender-based violence

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/international-womens-day-how-women-protest-in-peru-against-gender-based-violence-460121/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

2022 Theme: 
The United Nations this year has the motto “Gender Equality today for a Sustainable tomorrow” in celebration of those girls and women who are in charge of climate change adaption. 
The internationalwomensday.com states the campaign theme for IWD2022 is “#BreakTheBias” to promote gender equity globally.

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There is no doubt that the future is female. Every year on March 8, we celebrate International Women’s Day and this year it’s on Tuesday. Women are an important part of the society.

There is no doubt that the future is female. Every year on March 8, we celebrate International Women’s Day and this year it’s on Tuesday. Women are an important part of the society. They are strong, independent, fearless, divine, compassionate just like the song written by Beyonce 'Run the World (Girls),' and this day is a reminder of the same. Also read | Women's Day: Movies that celebrate powerful sheroes in Indian cinema Well, every day is Women’s Day. Each day, women are overcoming all sorts of obstacles, breaking rules to achieve their goals, dreams, with utmost determination and belief, seeking to make their life better and most importantly ensure gender equality. This day marks the historic journey women have taken globally to make their lives better, to have their own spot to shine. Even though so much has been achieved, the journey still has a long way to go and so much that needs to be done. Women’s day is not associated with just one country, group or community rather it’s the essence of empowering women globally. Also read | This Women's Day, watch these iconic shows that celebrate powerful female protagonists HISTORY: According to UNSECO, International Women’s Day emerged in early 20th century. During 1908, there was a continuous debate for shorter work hours and inequity faced by the female labourers. Later, almost 15,000 women marched through New York City demanding decreased working hours, right to vote, and the push for this became louder especially among those working in harsh conditions. The United States observed the inaugural Women’s Day in 1909. Copenhagen hosted an international meeting of all working women in 1910. Austria, Denmark, Germany and Switzerland celebrated their first Women’s Day on March 19, 1911. Women in Russia protested raising their slogan “Bread and Butter” and this movement led them to their first women’s day on February 23 during 1913 and 1914. Later International Women’s Day was globally declared to be celebrated on March 8. Watch | International Women's Day: How women protest in Peru against gender-based violence 2022 Theme: The United Nations this year has the motto “Gender Equality today for a Sustainable tomorrow” in celebration of those girls and women who are in charge of climate change adaption. The internationalwomensday.com states the campaign theme for IWD2022 is “#BreakTheBias” to promote gender equity globally.

#BreakTheBias: This is why we celebrate International Women's Day

Check out breathtaking images of 'pristine' coral reef discovered near Tahiti

Cultivating truffles calls for an unarguably unique sense of taste, and finding them is also a very complex task. Truffle hunting has now made it to UNESCO's list of intangible cultural heritage.

Truffle hunting on UNESCO's list of intangible cultural heritage list

The handmade production of blown glass beads into Christmas tree decorations in Ponikla, Czech Republic, has earned a place on the UNESCO list of intangible cultural heritage last year.

Czech glass beads added to UNESCO's list of intangible cultural heritage

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