The newly updated Law on Protection of Cultural Relics, effective from Saturday, marks a significant advancement in the legal framework safeguarding China’s rich cultural heritage. After extensive revisions, this law aims to streamline governance and enhance the preservation of relics, echoing the National Cultural Heritage Administration’s commitment to modernising the institutional framework within the sector.
This legal reform, approved by the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, represents the second major update since its inception in 1982, with previous amendments occurring in 2002. With a comprehensive structure comprising eight chapters and 101 articles, it demonstrates the government’s high regard for cultural heritage protection, as noted by Chen Xingcan, president of the Archaeological Society of China, who underscored its systematic nature.
President Xi Jinping’s consistent advocacy for cultural relics protection since 2012 underscores the importance of preserving these non-renewable resources. His directives combine urban development with heritage safeguarding, fostering harmony between progress and preservation. New principles introduced in 2022 centre around prioritising protection, effective management, and the active use of cultural sites in modern society.
The law now mandates archaeological surveys before construction projects in historic urban areas, ensuring that significant relics are not overlooked in the rush of urbanisation. Chen views this as a monumental change, providing legal support to archaeological efforts that have previously faced hurdles due to development pressures. This reflects a growing societal appreciation for cultural heritage, marking a transformative shift in respect for history.
The newly revised Law on Protection of Cultural Relics will be implemented on Saturday, enhancing the legal structure for safeguarding China’s heritage. With specific provisions and increased governmental oversight, the law aims to seamlessly incorporate heritage preservation into urban development, reflecting contemporary societal values and priorities.
In summary, the revamped Law on Protection of Cultural Relics signifies a crucial improvement in safeguarding China’s heritage. With stringent provisions for archaeological surveys and the enforcement of protective measures, this law not only honours tradition but actively integrates it into urban planning. Under strong governmental support and societal respect, the future of Chinese cultural heritage looks promising, fostering a deeper connection between history and modernity.
Original Source: www.ecns.cn
