A natural heritage property [...] which is submitted for inclusion on the World Heritage List will be considered to be of outstanding universal value for the purpose of the Convention when the Committee finds that it meets one or more of the four criteria and fulfils the condition of integrity.

According to the IUCN (The World Conservation Union), the Jungfrau-Aletsch-Bietschhorn area meets three of the four criteria, as follows:

Criteria (viii): The Jungfrau-Aletsch region is the most glaciated area in the Alps and incorporates the Great Aletsch Glacier, the largest and longest glacier in Western Eurasia. It is thus of significant scientific interest in the context of glacial history and ongoing processes, particularly in relation to climate change.

Criteria (ix): The Jungfrau-Aletsch region contains a wide range of alpine and sub-alpine habitats. Superb examples of ecological succession exist, including the distinctive upper and lower tree-line of the Aletsch forest. The global phenomenon of climate change is particularly well illustrated in the region, as reflected in the varying rates of retreat of the different glaciers, in turn providing new substrates for ongoing ecological succession.

Criteria (vii): The impressive landscape of the Jungfrau-Aletsch region has played an important role in European literature, art, mountaineering and alpine tourism. The aesthetics of the area have attracted an international clientele and it is recognised globally as one of the most spectacular mountain regions to visit.