Abstract
<jats:p>International agreements like the 1972 World Heritage Convention obligate member states to protect their sites and ensure their sustainability for future generations. However, there is often a disconnection between these commitments and actual practices, especially in conflict-affected and unstable countries like Syria and Yemen, where policies tend to focus on emergency responses rather than long-term preservation, leaving human risks unaddressed. Libya exemplifies this issue. The Old Town of Ghadames (OTG) was inscribed on the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) World Heritage Site in 1986 for its exceptional architectural and cultural significance, but it was placed on its Danger List in 2016 due to ongoing conflict. By 2025, it was removed from the list after the government enacted corrective measures, including conservation initiatives and efforts to safeguard its outstanding universal value (OUV), which UNESCO deemed sufficient for removal. However, these actions mainly targeted site management, while human risks like fires, graffiti, and urban development remained inadequately managed. This chapter aims to analyse the disparity between international commitments and reality in Libya through a case study of Ghadames, illustrating broader challenges facing heritage in fragile contexts. It advocates for a coordinated, multi-level strategy that aligns international frameworks with national heritage policies, local governance, and community-led initiatives. Additionally, it highlights the importance of long-term preventive measures, such as regular risk evaluations, ongoing maintenance, and educational programs, to bolster resilience over time. Promoting awareness among younger generations is crucial, as they are the future stewards of cultural heritage sustainability.</jats:p>