Safeguarding the Past, Securing the Future: EU’s Third Report on Cultural Heritage in Conflicts and Crises

The EU is committed to protecting cultural heritage in conflict zones because it’s an important source of social cohesion.

Photo: Stabilization works carried out at the Museum of Fine Arts in Odessa, Ukraine, June 2024 –  Photo courtesy of NGO Museum for Change

Cultural heritage plays a vital role in fostering social cohesion, strengthening a sense of identity, and driving economic development. Yet it continues to face significant threats, particularly in conflict zones. The EU is committed to protecting cultural heritage in conflict zones.

This year marks the 70th anniversary of the 1954 Hague Convention for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict.

The European External Action Service (EEAS) has published the third Progress Report on the Implementation of the EU’s Concept on Cultural Heritage in Conflicts and Crises.

The 2024 report highlights the EU’s proactive approach to cultural heritage protection.

Cultural Heritage Destruction in Ukraine

Since the start of Russia’s war of aggression in Ukraine in 2022, the EU has intensified its efforts to protect Ukrainian cultural heritage.

Over the past two years, the EU has provided funding, emergency protection and training for cultural heritage first responders.

The EU is supporting Ukrainian authorities in the difficult task of protecting their heritage and holding accountable those who commit crimes against it.

The EU organised conferences to address cultural heritage crimes, while its commitment extends to medium- and long-term plans for the reconstruction and restoration of Ukraine’s cultural heritage. This will remain a challenge for the foreseeable future.

Cultural Heritage and CSDP Missions

The 2024 report highlights cultural heritage protection actions by CSDP missions in a number of regions. For example, the EU has developed specific training programmes to ensure personnel are equipped to address the unique challenges of protecting cultural heritage in conflict zones.

Combating Illicit Trafficking of Cultural Goods

The illicit trafficking of cultural goods by criminals remains a significant threat, with far-reaching security implications. In response, the EU has taken decisive steps under its Action Plan Against Trafficking in Cultural Goods, intensifying international cooperation, advocating for strong legal frameworks, and raising awareness to prevent these crimes.

The EU continues to work with global partners to combat this issue and mitigate its impact on both security and cultural preservation.

The third report on cultural protection is focussed on its integration into the Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP), and the EU’s response to ongoing crises. These efforts are fully aligned with the Strategic Compass and the 2023 Civilian CSDP Compact, further embedding cultural heritage protection into the EU’s broader security and defence strategies.