The UNESCO 2001 Convention on the Protection of the Underwater Cultural Heritage

The UNESCO 2001 Convention on the Protection of the Underwater Cultural Heritage aims to safeguard historical sites and artifacts found underwater, such as shipwrecks and submerged cities. It establishes guidelines for countries to responsibly manage and protect these treasures, promoting awareness of their historical significance. The convention prohibits commercial exploitation of such sites, emphasizing that underwater cultural heritage should be preserved for future generations. By fostering international cooperation, it seeks to ensure that the underwater heritage contributes to cultural and educational enrichment rather than being lost or damaged.