UNESCO has established several conventions to protect cultural heritage, and the Convention on the Protection of the Underwater Cultural Heritage (2001) specifically addresses the preservation of cultural sites and artifacts found beneath the water. The main way it protects underwater cultural heritage includes:
- Legal Framework: The convention provides a set of principles and legal standards for the protection of underwater cultural heritage, focusing on preventing illegal excavation and trafficking of artifacts.
- State Obligations: Countries that ratify the convention are legally bound to protect underwater heritage within their waters. This includes implementing regulations, monitoring activities, and taking action against illegal practices like treasure hunting.
- In situ Preservation: The convention emphasizes that underwater cultural heritage should, as much as possible, be preserved where it is found (in situ), rather than being removed and moved to land. This helps maintain its context and ensures better long-term preservation.
- Scientific Approach: The convention promotes the use of scientific and non-invasive methods for research and excavation, prioritizing the understanding of the heritage over its exploitation.
- Collaboration: The convention encourages international cooperation to protect underwater cultural heritage, ensuring that if the heritage crosses international boundaries (like shipwrecks in international waters), all concerned states work together for preservation.
- Prevention of Commercial Exploitation: One of the key aspects is the prevention of the commercial exploitation of underwater cultural heritage, such as selling artifacts for profit, which can lead to the loss of cultural value and scientific data.