IN COLLABORATION WITH THE ORIENTAL CULTURAL HERITAGE SITES PROTECTION ALLIANCE (OCHSPA)

Buddhism: Expectation and Reality Series

The Oriental Cultural Heritage Sites Protection Alliance (OCHSPA), founded in Paris in 2008, is a non-governmental organization dedicated to the conservation and promotion of Oriental cultural heritage, with a special focus on Buddhist sites across Asia. As a non-profit entity, OCHSPA works to preserve the tangible and intangible legacy of Buddhist culture, ensuring its transmission to future generations.

OCHSPA’s mission centers on the protection of historical and cultural relics, fostering urban and social development through heritage conservation. The Alliance facilitates cooperation among international experts, universities, and cultural professionals, creating a global network for the exchange of knowledge and best practices in heritage preservation.

A key objective is to engage scholars, institutions, and eminent figures in addressing critical issues related to the conservation of Buddhist and Oriental heritage. By organizing conferences, academic forums, and field investigations, OCHSPA provides a platform for diverse academic voices and promotes innovative research in heritage protection. The Alliance actively promotes dialogue between countries and cultures, particularly between Asia and Europe. It collaborates with leading universities, cultural institutions, and industry professionals to advance the study and preservation of Buddhist heritage, strengthening cross-continental partnerships. OCHSPA publishes scholarly works, research findings, and educational materials to raise awareness and support the conservation of Oriental cultural sites. Through its working groups and public declarations, the Alliance influences policy and practice, advocating for sustainable and respectful heritage management.

In partnership with UNESCO offices (Kathmandu, New Delhi, Jakarta), national heritage agencies (Nepal, Bhutan, Taiwan), and prestigious universities (Sorbonne, Durham, Tianjin), OCHSPA implements projects that protect iconic Buddhist sites such as Lumbini and the Kathmandu Valley. These collaborations mobilize technical expertise, media engagement, and private sector support, ensuring that conservation efforts are both effective and widely recognized. By uniting governments, academics, and the public, OCHSPA creates a dynamic environment for sharing experiences and techniques, fostering a global culture of heritage stewardship and mutual respect. The Alliance’s work not only preserves the past but also enriches the present, ensuring that the spiritual and cultural significance of Buddhist heritage endures for generations to come.