UNESCO

The intensity and the number of attacks against cultural heritage have increased significantly in recent years, particularly in the Middle East and Africa. The persecution of individuals for cultural or religious reasons, combined with the systematic destruction of their cultural heritage, has marked the emergence of a form of cultural cleansing that is unprecedented in recent history.

The targeting of cultural diversity has become a key aspect of the humanitarian and security challenges in the regions concerned. This directly weakens the resilience, cohesion and strength of the victims as well as societies as a whole. In return, the protection of cultural diversity can contribute to restoring social cohesion and to opening prospects to resolve crises, particularly in protracted conflict situations. Respect for cultural diversity is also essential for reconciliation, national dialogue and reconstruction.

This role has been recognized notably by the European External Action Service, which seeks to highlight cultural diplomacy as a strategy for international dialogue.

UNESCO has a unique mandate within the United Nations system for safeguarding heritage and cultural expressions, and is well placed to launch, in partnership with the European Union, a global initiative for the protection of cultural diversity as an element of conflict prevention and reconciliation. 

Examples of UNESCO-EU cooperation

• Restoration of the sacred gate of Sidi Yahia in Timbuktu