Cooperating to Save Laos’ Plain of Jars

via The Diplomat, 20 March 2020: Developing a disaster risk management program for the Plain of Jars, a project done by some of my colleagues in Unesco Bangkok and SEAMEO SPAFA.

Abandoned about 1,500 years ago, the Plain of Jars in Laos has become world-renowned. What is less well known, however, is that the valuable sites in the area face a host of threats, from natural disasters such as forest fires, landslides, flooding, and vegetation encroachment, to human-inflicted harm such as theft, vandalism, and irresponsible tourism, not to mention that demining efforts are continuing in some areas.

Despite recognition of the danger, there was not a comprehensive disaster risk management plan to prevent damage and mitigate harm before the beginning of this year. As those efforts are now just underway, the Plain of Jars is an important example of safeguarding World Heritage, particularly in developing countries, based on cooperation between government, international experts, and – crucially – the villagers who have been living in those areas for many generations.

Source: Cooperating to Save Laos’ Plain of Jars – The Diplomat