Launch of UNESCO Together

A new all-island network is helping UNESCO sites across Ireland and Northern Ireland work more closely together to share knowledge, strengthen connections and support sustainable development.

UNESCO Together unites 14 UNESCO designated sites and six tentative sites, creating opportunities for collaboration across culture, heritage, education, sustainability and community development.

Supported by the UK National Commission for UNESCO and the National Commission of Ireland for UNESCO, the network connects UNESCO Global Geoparks, World Heritage Sites, Biosphere Reserves and Creative Cities from across the island of Ireland. 

The network was officially launched on 2 September at the Duncairn Centre in Belfast, where representatives gathered to exchange ideas and explore opportunities for future partnership and learning. 

Over the next two years, UNESCO Together aims to involve more than 650 people in a range of cross-border activities, including workshops, community exchanges, creative residencies, environmental initiatives and cultural storytelling programmes. 

Alongside these activities, the network will develop an all-island strategic roadmap to support longer-term cooperation between UNESCO sites. This will include exploring opportunities such as a UNESCO tourism trail and considering how UNESCO designations can contribute to sustainable tourism, education, cultural identity and thriving communities. 

UNESCO Together highlights the value of being part of a wider UNESCO network. By sharing experiences, learning from one another and working collaboratively, UNESCO sites can strengthen their impact while celebrating the unique places, cultures and communities that connect them. 

Learn more about the network and who is involved here.