Feb 19 • 15:21 UTC 🇨🇿 Czechia Deník N

Will the revision of the construction law threaten UNESCO heritage sites? Experts warn of disgrace, the state rejects criticism

Historians and architects in Czechia are opposing a proposed revision to the construction law, warning it could jeopardize UNESCO heritage sites and calling for stronger protections.

In Czechia, a significant debate has erupted over a proposed revision of the construction law, which historians and architects argue could lead to the weakening of protections for UNESCO heritage sites. They submitted an open letter to the government expressing their concerns that the revisions could result in the removal of Czech landmarks from the UNESCO World Heritage list. Key sites such as Prague, Kutná Hora, and Český Krumlov are highlighted as being at risk due to the proposed changes.

Critics of the bill assert that it eliminates protective zones surrounding heritage sites and introduces potential threats to their preservation. They describe the potential consequences of the law as 'fundamental,' emphasizing that the current debate is not merely academic but a critical issue of cultural preservation. The group of experts fears that the proposed changes may undermine years of efforts in safeguarding these historical locations, fundamentally altering the landscape of cultural heritage in the country.

On the other hand, the Czech Ministry of Regional Development has rejected these accusations, asserting that the revisions do not weaken protections but aim to streamline construction processes. The officials are engaging in efforts to respond to the concerns raised, indicating a contentious dialogue between the government and cultural advocates as they navigate the balance between development and heritage conservation.

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