Frequently Asked Questions

How does WMF work with UNESCO?
WMF is an independent non-profit organization with no formal ties to UNESCO. However, WMF has aided many World Heritage sites and often works side-by-side with UNESCO.

How does the World Monuments Watch list differ from the World Heritage list?
While many sites on WMF’s biennial Watch list of 100 Most Endangered Sites are also World Heritage sites, Watch listing, unlike World Heritage listing, is not a permanent designation. Watch sites may be nominated by governments, local and international preservation groups, nongovernmental organizations, and/or individuals; World Heritage sites must be nominated by the UNESCO member country.

What is WMF's annual budget? Where does WMF's funding come from?
Expenditures on program and support services for WMF’s fiscal year 2006 reached a new high of $17 million. Eighty-seven percent, or $14.7 million, of WMF’s expenses went directly to program services: 171 field projects were given funding, with 24 receiving more than $100,000 each.

What percentage of WMF's expenditures actually goes towards field projects?
Approximately 86% of WMF's expenditures goes to field conservation projects and related education and outreach programs. The remaining 14% goes toward fundraising, administration, and general overhead expenses.

Is WMF rated by any charity watch groups?
WMF is proud to have been awarded a high rating from Charity Navigator every year since 2003.

What is the geographic distribution of WMF's work?
In 2006, WMF had projects in: Asia (19%), North America (12%), South America (6%), Central and Eastern Europe (23%), Western Europe, (28%), Middle East (3%), North Africa (6%), Sub-Saharan Africa (1%), and Oceania (1%).

How does WMF select projects?
Requests for assistance for field projects are evaluated for compatibility with the mission and priorities of WMF and with available funding sources. The sites on the WMF’s Watch list of 100 Most Endangered Sites are selected every two years by an independent panel of experts. More information about WMF programs and current field projects.

How many projects has WMF worked on?
Since 1965, WMF has worked on more than 500 sites in 91 countries. WMF monitors hundreds of sites—including past and present Watch sites and a wide range of projects supported by WMF grants. At any one time, WMF manages approximately 150 projects around the world.

How does WMF manage so many projects all over the world?
WMF works with a global network of private and public partners and consultants—archaeologists, preservationists, architects, conservators, and craftspeople—who work under the direction of, or in consultation with, WMF staff in New York and Europe.

Does WMF offer a volunteer or internship program?
We are sorry, but due to space and staffing limitations, WMF does not offer a formal internship or volunteer program at this time. WMF encourages those interested in internships or volunteering to contact a preservation organization in their community.

More FAQs about World Monuments Fund