Has OUV in crit 3 and 6, but ICOMOS worried about protection and thus wants a Referral (add a buffer zone and regulations, and - eeeh- no mining or cable car)

Kenya has submitted an amendment for inscription. Malawi has already put the regulations and buffer zone in place.

Murujuga is currently problematic but oh well--https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-06-18/delegation-lobby-unesco-rock-art-north-west-shelf-listing/105429264


Here we go again!

Mount Mulanje inscribed on crit 3 and 6

Faya Paleaolandscape (UAE) now. ICOMOS not a fan, lacking scientific substantiation

Well-protected but no OUV

UAE have selected Zambia to represent them and turn it into an inscription, the preacher! He thinks when he shouts, it gets OUV

Had a quick read of Faya's nomination file, its comparison texts, and ICOMOS' assessment remind me of the weak analogy fallacy ICOMOS was pointing out.

Nobody can withstand the influence of a state like the UAE (or Saudi).
Let's see if a more critical WHC member appears. Belgium yesterday was slightly critical

Qatar very outspoken in an attack to ICOMOS, you just don't understand the region

The field mission to Faya was led by Sanjin Mihelic (Croatia).
We need to look at his CV ('curator of prehistory at the Zagreb Archaeological Museum'), but Qatar may have a point

A classic example of cultural essentialism. :(

Yet it didn't work for Khor Dubai.

Some critical words from Turkiye to UAE (about the comparative analysis mainly), but supports inscription

ICOMOS replies:
- the approach and scope chosen by UAE did not lead to showing OUV (but others could)
- they could have focused on the Out of Africa narrative but did not

Amendment (broad consensus) also hints at potential transboundary extensions.