World Heritage Day 2021: Theme, history and significance

World Heritage Day, also known as International Day for Monuments and Sites, is observed on April 18 every year to raise awareness about the restoration and preservation of the cultural heritage of humanity. 

The day was proposed by the International Council of Monuments and Sites and United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) established it in 1982. 

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This year, the theme for World Heritage Day is “Complex Pasts: Diverse Futures”. While several historic monuments and sites have been preserved around the world, there are still many that are forgotten and need to be restored. In addition, not every single site has a happy, rosy history. 

To celebrate this diversity and bring unbiased opinions to light, the theme motivates people to come together keeping aside their differences and give the message of solidarity.

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World Heritage Day’s significance is not only limited to monuments and sites. The day also plays a part in preserving the diverse cultures of communities and countries. According to UNESCO’s official website, this day invites all of us to reflect on, interpret and review existing narratives about our heritage.