The “Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe” form the largest and most complex transnational serial World Natural Heritage site in the UNESCO portfolio, stretching across 18 European countries.
These forests not only comprise the most valuable and best-protected beech forest communities on the continent and tell the story of their continental expansion since the last ice age – they also stand for an outstanding example of international cooperation and friendship, which is why they present a symbol for Europe, European values and peace building in the sense of UNESCO.
The entire Beech Forest Family is full of grief because of the terrible outburst of violence against humanity, which the Russian army currently brings upon Ukraine and its people.
In these dark times, our thoughts and hearts are with our friends in Ukraine. United we stand against any form of violence and jointly condemn this war of aggression.
We pray for the victims and demand an end of violence!