Outstanding Universal Value of World Natural Heritage Sites: Definition Issues

Abstract

The paper provides an in-depth analysis of the concept of outstanding universal value of world heritage sites, which is the supporting category of the entire system of protection of unique natural sites. The paper considers the normative basis for the definition of this concept in the Convention for the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage, the Guidelines for its implementation, the practice of the World Heritage Committee and the acts of its advisory bodies. The tripartite division of the composition of outstanding universal value is critically analyzed and the reasons for its appearance are highlighted. Methods of formalizing the analyzed concept are explored, shortcomings in the formulation of wordings of outstanding universal value are highlighted, and various ways to improve this institution are proposed. The comparative legal method of research is widely used: all the problems discussed in the paper are illustrated by the current law enforcement practice of the World Heritage Committee in reviewing the state of conservation of unique natural objects located in foreign countries. The results obtained are compared with the problems of protecting Russian World Natural Heritage sites.