David Johnson recently travelled to Kotor, Montenegro, as part of his ongoing work with the Organization of World Heritage Cities (OWHC). Accompanied by OWHC Secretary General Mikhaël de Thyse and Michal Krazucki, Director of the Warsaw Heritage Protection Department, David took part in an advisory mission focused on strengthening disaster risk management for Kotor’s UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The workshops, held on 18–19 June, brought together local stakeholders to review and update the city’s risk assessment for threats including fire, earthquakes and overtourism, and to develop a practical action plan. As Consultant for the OWHC’s Assistance Program in Case of Emergencies, David contributed to discussions that will support the implementation of a pilot project to create a strategic map and emergency evacuation plan for St. Trophimus (Tryphon’s) Cathedral and the Kotor Museum; the first project of its kind within the OWHC network.

The progress of this pioneering initiative will be presented at the 18th OWHC World Congress in Marrakech later this year, helping to share best practice in protecting historic cities and their cultural heritage.