International Conference on Protecting Cultural Heritage During War
On November 27-28, an international conference titled «Protection of UNESCO World Heritage Sites During War: New Challenges and Solutions» took place in Kyiv.
At the opening of the conference, Deputy Minister of Culture Anastasia Bondar emphasized the importance of updating international standards for heritage protection amid armed conflict. She noted that Ukrainian specialists are facing new forms of threats, such as invisible structural defects.
«Ukraine is currently experiencing a war of a new nature. This conflict reveals shortcomings in the existing mechanisms for protecting cultural heritage», — emphasized Anastasia Bondar.
She called for the activation of international discussions regarding updating heritage protection:
«Is it not time to discuss the possibility of creating a new protocol to the Hague Convention, based on Ukrainian experience? How can we improve international protection mechanisms in response to the challenges of the 21st century? I hope that conferences like this will contribute to this process».
Among the main topics discussed at the conference was the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, an important cultural site in the center of Kyiv.
Acting Director of the «Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra» reserve, Svitlana Kotliarevskaya, stated that Ukraine could become a leader in establishing new international standards for cultural heritage protection.
«We see the need to create a new heritage protection model, implement long-term programs for the revitalization of monuments, and develop the cultural environment post-war», — she added.
The conference also highlighted the challenges faced by other UNESCO World Heritage sites:
- St. George's Cathedral;
- historical center of Lviv;
- historical center of Odesa;
- Residence of Bukovina and Dalmatia Metropolitans in Chernivtsi.
Experts discussed the condition of these sites, the extent of damage, and risks to their collections.
Separate sessions were dedicated to documenting destruction, digital recording of monument conditions, and management strategies in dangerous circumstances. Participants will also consider opportunities for international support.
As a result of the event, organizers will prepare recommendations for Ukrainian cultural institutions and international organizations, which will serve as a foundation for future support of Ukrainian heritage.
