Milestones, Spring 2000

By targeting sites for immediate action the World Monuments Watch® (WMW) has helped to protect and preserve many cultural heritage sites around the world. Listing has enabled site advocates to bring pressure on local communities and decision makers, influencing public opinion and achieving positive results. Grants from the World Monuments Fund to selected WMW sites have generated substantial leverage-$I 7 million in contributions from other sources matching WMF's investment of $7 million. Good results always depend upon strong and dedicated local leadership. Site nominators are the most valuable factor in the success of the World Monuments Watch. The following stories represent different stages of progress through the WMW program-a few sites removed from immediate danger, progress on others has moved forward but not eliminated the threat, and some remain gravely threatened