UNESCO’s general director Irina Bokova has urged the Mali and French authorities to protect the ancient cultural sites in the region, four of which are listed on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
‘Mali’s cultural heritage is a jewel whose protection is important for the whole of humanity,’ Bokova said in a statement. ‘The destruction of World Heritage sites in Mali in 2012, especially the mausoleums in Timbuktu, sparked a wave of indignation across the world, helping to raise awareness of the critical situation facing the Malian people. The current military intervention must protect people and secure the cultural heritage of Mali.’