Examining the process of Munzur Valley and National Park's Inclusion in the UNESCO world heritage list criteria

This study focuses on the protection and management processes of natural and cultural assets nominated for the UNESCO World Heritage List. Specifically, it examines sustainable heritage management approaches through the case of Munzur Valley in Turkey and evaluates its current status according to UNESCO criteria. The study discusses the evolution of the World Heritage concept, the role of UNESCO, the notion of Outstanding Universal Value (OUV), and the structural and administrative challenges encountered by Turkey in the context of its World Heritage sites. Using qualitative research methods, the thesis evaluates the opportunities and obstacles in the nomination process of Munzur Valley based on field studies, official documents, and institutional reports. The importance of local stakeholder participation, natural conservation measures, and the development of management plans in the inscription process is emphasized. The findings indicate that a more holistic and multi-actor approach is required in heritage management practices in Turkey. The Munzur Valley case demonstrates the feasibility of sustainable models that integrate the protection of both natural and cultural heritage, serving as a valuable reference for future heritage site nominations.