On November 27-28, an international conference titled «Protecting Ukraine's Cultural Heritage Amidst War: Challenges and Responses» was held in Kyiv.
During the opening, Anastasia Bondar, Deputy Minister of Culture, emphasized the need for updating international mechanisms for protecting cultural heritage during wartime. She pointed out that Ukrainian specialists are facing new challenges, from invisible structural damages to long-term deformations that may manifest over time.
«Today, Ukraine is experiencing a war that requires new approaches to cultural heritage protection and assessing their effectiveness», — noted Bondar.
She called on the international community to initiate discussions on updating international mechanisms for cultural heritage protection:
«Is it not time to discuss the creation of a Third Protocol to the Hague Convention based on Ukraine's experience? Is there an understanding worldwide of the changing nature of warfare, and how, using our experiences, can we enhance international protection mechanisms? I hope that conferences like this one will be the starting point for this process».
One of the key examples discussed at the conference is the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, a unique complex that serves as a monastery, museum, and architectural ensemble in the heart of the capital.
Svetlana Kotliarevska, acting director of the National Reserve «Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra», highlighted that Ukraine can not only protect its heritage but also set new international standards for its protection.
«Our vision includes creating a new international model for heritage protection, implementing long-term revitalization programs for Ukrainian monuments, and developing sustainable cultural tourism in the post-war period», — she added.
Participants also shared their unique challenges related to UNESCO World Heritage sites:
- St. Sophia Cathedral and its adjoining monastery buildings;
- Lviv's historical center;
- Odesa's historic center;
- Chernivtsi's Metropolitan Residence.
During the conference, experts are discussing the actual conditions of these sites, the extent of damages, and risks to the preservation of collections that cannot be evacuated.
Separate discussions will focus on documenting destruction, digitally recording the status of landmarks, updating management approaches under ongoing threats, and formats for community interaction in crisis situations. Participants will also explore opportunities for international support that Ukraine is garnering alongside UNESCO and other partners.
As a result of the event, organizers will compile professional recommendations for Ukrainian institutions, international organizations, and professional communities. This document will become the basis for future support programs, research initiatives, projects for post-war recovery, and further advocacy for Ukrainian heritage in a global context.
