Endangered Cultural Heritage: Protection Mechanisms, Prevention and International Responsibility

Cultural heritage is multifaceted and encompasses both tangible and intangible forms of expression: It includes buildings, works of art and archaeological sites as well as languages, orally transmitted texts, craft traditions and rituals. However, cultural heritage is under threat in many respects. This threat is particularly evident in war and conflict zones, where cultural heritage is deliberately destroyed or falls victim to military conflicts. Here, it is not just a question of preserving special cultural assets, but of protecting the identity of people and communities. Neighboring countries and the international community also bear this responsibility, because it is about identity and continuity of societies. The protection of cultural heritage and self-image is considered a central component of reconciliation, peacekeeping and shared memory. Against this backdrop, the question arises as to how cultural heritage can be effectively protected and preserved for future generations.

The seminar will begin with a review of the current situation, looking at the dimensions and manifestations of cultural heritage as well as the international agreements and framework conditions. The aim is to show how international protection and documentation tasks are organized and supported, particularly in the area of prevention. As an example from the Middle East, the destruction and reconstruction of Aleppo (Syria) and Mosul (Iraq) will be discussed. 

Participants in the seminar are expressly invited to contribute their own content that deals with different dimensions of the preservation and protection of culture and tradition - such as literature, film, language, arts and crafts or dance. An excursion offers participants the opportunity to get to know the cultural heritage of the city of Münster and to reflect on it in situ.