World Capital of Culture, History, and Heritage Award

Introduction to the Afro-Asian Union (AFASU) and the Awards Sector:

The Afro-Asian Union (AFASU) is an international organization that aims to promote cooperation between the African and Asian continents in the fields of tourism, culture, technology, sustainable development, and innovation. The union is committed to fostering human values and cultural understanding through innovative programs and international initiatives.

The union was established as one of the executive arms of the Afro-Asian Peoples' Solidarity Organization (AAPSO), the second oldest non-governmental popular international organization in the world. AAPSO was founded by a decision and international treaty led by historical leaders Jawaharlal Nehru, Josip Broz Tito, and Gamal Abdel Nasser during the Bandung Conference in Indonesia in 1955. The organization has members from 92 countries, providing the union with a broad international reach.

The Awards Sector is one of the most prominent divisions within AFASU, responsible for honoring cities, individuals, and institutions that achieve exceptional accomplishments in cultural, tourism, and humanitarian fields, thereby enhancing their global recognition.

Introduction to the Award:

The World Capital of Culture, History, and Heritage Award is one of the flagship awards presented by the Afro-Asian Union (AFASU) to recognize cities with remarkable historical and cultural heritage that contribute significantly to enriching human civilization. The award is granted to cities that demonstrate exceptional efforts in preserving their heritage, developing their culture, and promoting sustainable tourism.

This award serves as an international platform to highlight and attract global attention to these cities as prominent cultural and historical destinations.
International Judging Committee:
The judging committee comprises 42 members who are top international experts specializing in the following fields:
Tourism
History
Culture
Sustainable Development
Additionally, the committee includes academics, media professionals, and distinguished figures from reputable international organizations and institutions. The selection process follows clear and precise criteria to ensure transparency and credibility.

Award Objectives:

•  Highlight cities with unique cultural and historical heritage.
• Promote cultural and historical tourism to support global cultural and civilizational diversity.
• Raise awareness about the importance of preserving heritage as part of human identity.
• Support sustainable tourism as a tool to boost the local economy and protect natural resources.
• Encourage cultural exchange among nations by showcasing shared values.
• Inspire creativity and innovation in heritage management.

Award Vision:

To achieve global integration that enhances the value of historical and cultural cities as fundamental pillars of human civilization and sustainable development.

Award Mission:
To honor, support, and promote cities that make remarkable efforts in protecting and developing their heritage, presenting them as global models of cultural and historical excellence.

Award Duration:
The award is granted every two years, and the winning city holds the title of "World Capital of Culture, History, and Heritage" throughout this period.
Award Criteria:

1. Rich Cultural and Historical Heritage:
   The city must possess internationally recognized cultural and historical assets.
2. Heritage Preservation Efforts:
   Execution of restoration and documentation projects.
3. Promotion of Sustainable Tourism:
   Innovative strategies to attract visitors while protecting natural resources.
4. Cultural and Educational Initiatives:
   Educational programs that raise awareness about the significance of heritage.
5. International and Local Collaboration:
   Partnerships with relevant organizations and institutions to achieve sustainable development.
6. Effective Management:
   The presence of competent management committed to heritage preservation and community engagement.

Award Ceremony:

The award ceremony will be held in the winning city with a grand, prestigious event attended by prominent figures from tourism, culture, and development sectors. The event will include:
A global press conference to announce the winning city.
Cultural and artistic performances showcasing the city’s unique heritage.
Official speeches from union leaders and the judging committee.
Award presentation to the city’s governor and local leadership.

The ceremony aims to highlight the city as a global cultural and historical destination while motivating other cities to focus on preserving and promoting their heritage.

The "World Capital of Culture, History, and Heritage Award" is more than just an accolade; it is a global call to action for preserving human heritage and celebrating the cultural and historical diversity that unites nations worldwide.