Harmonization of Regulation on Exploration of Valuable Object from the Load of Sinking Ship in Preparation for the Ratification of the UNESCO Convention 2001

Abstract

Regulations on the protection of underwater archaeology include prohibitions on the unlawful trafficking of cultural property and underwater archaeology training. Transfer of technologies and information sharing is also encouraged, as is public understanding of the value and relevance of the underwater cultural heritage. The Convention contains the “Rules for activities directed at undersea cultural heritage,” i.e., operation schemes for underwater interventions, and is widely acknowledged as the reference document in the underwater discipline. States Parties should prioritize preserving undersea cultural assets and take appropriate action. The Convention’s objectives are to (1) secure universal protection for underwater cultural treasures, (2) promote international collaboration, and (3) develop professional standards. In Indonesia’s national law, there are no special rules governing the protection of underwater cultural assets; rather, the provisions are generally limited to cultural heritage protection regulations.