Observing Memories Issue 8 December 2024 | Page 47

4 . Mayki Gorosito , Director of the ESMA Museum and Memory Site , during the World Heritage Celebration Event , | ESMA
In 2023 , the ESMA Museum and Site of Memory was included as a heritage asset on UNESCO ’ s World Heritage List . What was the process of inclusion ? What are the characteristics that make the ESMA Museum and Site of Memory considered as World Heritage ?
MG : The implementation of the work plan for the candidacy of the Site-Museum to UNESCO ’ s World Heritage List was extensive , rigorous , and complex . At the same time , it opened multiple connections and possibilities to develop institutional potential . On the one hand , it involved preparing a nomination dossier with an interdisciplinary team made up of professionals from various fields of knowledge , such as journalists , historians , communicators , specialists in heritage , human rights , and international cooperation . Then , informing all the actors involved in the governance of the Site-Museum and the Public Entity for the Space for Memory and for the Promotion and Defence of Human Rights , and demonstrating the integrity and authenticity of the site . In addition to proposing , as exceptional universal values , that the Site-Museum is a testimony and symbol of State terrorism based on forced disappearance ,
and of the value of social consensus as a means to achieve justice . Beyond proposing an Exceptional Universal Value , we also had to demonstrate the integrity and authenticity of the site . We also organised regular meetings to inform Memory Spaces across the country and defined a strategy to gather support . We created a map of institutions and key figures from academia , sub-regional integration bodies , parliaments , organisations and social movements , cultural sectors , the sports sector , UNESCO chairs , trade unions , and feminist and LGBTIQ + organisations . Through meetings , we informed them of the candidacy and what the Site- Museum symbolises and bears witness to , not only for Argentina but also for the world . From them , we received hundreds of endorsements , which were fundamental in broadening consensus . At the national level , I highlight the unanimous support from the Chambers of Deputies and Senators of the Nation , the Legislature of the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires , the Federal Council for Human Rights , and the Council of the Judiciary . Regarding the international sphere , we also worked to generate support , establish synergies with diplomatic representations , international organisations and networks , and maintain contact with sites in other
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