Russian resignation will allow Unesco committee to resume work

The resignation of Russia’s ambassador to Unesco will end the deadlock in a key group he chaired that is charged with preserving cultural sites around the world, a diplomatic source said.

The world heritage committee, responsible for adding properties to Unesco’s list of world heritage sites, had been unable to function for months after the international backlash against Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

The resignation would allow the committee to “quickly appoint a new president” and resume its activities, a UN diplomat said.

Russia’s position as chair of the committee sparked an outcry among other members after Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine in February.