Historical Heritage
© UNESCO / Jacob Bock
(North-east Tobago UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Stock Footage Database)
High Level Goal
Strategies
North-east Tobago’s historical heritage assets are protected under national law, conserved according to international best practise, and sensibly made available for research, education, and income-generating opportunities.
Current Situation
The majority of these 20 key cultural heritage assets are in the “At Risk” category, which means they are deteriorating as a result of neglect, inappropriate development, and under-resourced management. Additional issues are dispersed or difficult-to-access archival material, unclear ownership, difficult access, erosion, theft, lack of restoration knowledge, and almost complete lack of adequate interpretation.
Priority Needs
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A complete inventory of terrestrial and marine heritage assets;
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a halt to further loss, destruction, theft, and dilapidation;
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legal protection of cultural heritage assets; and
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income generating usage of heritage assets should contribute to their maintenance and renovations as well as provide livelihoods for community members
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Establishment and facilitation of a North-east Tobago Man and the Biosphere Reserve Heritage Asset Working Group;
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establishment of national, regional, and international partnerships with independent experts, supporting organisations, and universities;
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procurement of grants, voluntary support, and operationalise income generating activities to support heritage conservation efforts; and
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outreach regarding the significance of the Biosphere Reserve’s heritage assets for cultural identity and sustainable economic development to stakeholders, networks, and visitors.
Further Information: