Topic: 2025-Protecting Heritage Sites and Cultural Artifacts in Conflict Zones
Country: Panama
Delegate Name: Aidan Jaronik
Delegate: Aidan Jaronik New Prairie High School
Position Paper: Protecting Heritage Sites and Cultural Artifacts in Conflict Zones
Country: Panama
Committee: United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization
Topic: Protecting Heritage Sites and Cultural Artifacts in Conflict Zones
Introduction
Heritage sites and cultural artifacts are crucial to preserving history, identity, and traditions.
However, in conflict zones, these treasures face severe risks from destruction, looting, and illegal
trade. The loss of cultural heritage not only erases history but also harms affected communities.
This position paper outlines Panama’s concerns, policy stances, and proposed actions to
safeguard heritage sites and cultural artifacts, ensuring their protection during conflicts and
beyond.
Panama’s Perspective
Panama strongly advocates for the protection of heritage sites and cultural artifacts, recognizing
their importance to global history and identity. Panama is committed to preserving cultural
heritage and strengthening international efforts to prevent its destruction. Some key concerns
include:
● Irreversible Cultural Loss: The destruction of heritage sites leads to the permanent loss
of historical and cultural knowledge, impacting future generations.
● Illegal Trafficking of Artifacts: Conflicts often lead to increased looting and the illegal
sale of cultural artifacts, funding criminal networks and weakening national heritage.
● Violation of International Laws: The destruction of cultural property violates
international agreements and undermines global commitments to heritage preservation.
Panama’s Policy Positions
Panama supports a comprehensive approach to addressing the threats to cultural heritage in
conflict zones. Key policy positions include:
● Strengthening International Protections: Panama advocates for stronger enforcement
of UNESCO conventions and international treaties to ensure cultural heritage sites are
safeguarded during conflicts.
● Combating Illicit Trafficking: Panama seeks to enhance global efforts to track, recover,
and return stolen artifacts, working closely with law enforcement and cultural institutions
worldwide.
● Supporting Emergency Response Efforts: Panama is committed to providing financial
support to emergency interventions that protect and restore damaged heritage sites in
conflict zones.
● Encouraging Education and Awareness: Promoting awareness of cultural heritage
threats and promoting cooperation to prevent destruction and illicit trade.
● Enhancing Regional Cooperation: Panama believes that alliances are essential in
preventing cultural heritage loss, especially in Latin America, where shared history and
artifacts require collective protection.
Proposed Solutions
To effectively protect heritage sites and cultural artifacts, Panama proposes the following
solutions:
1. Stronger National Legislation: Panama may implement stricter penalties against the
illegal trade of cultural artifacts, reinforcing national protection measures.
2. International Collaboration: Panama will work closely with UNESCO, INTERPOL,
and other organizations to prevent the destruction and trafficking of cultural artifacts.
3. Improved Border and Customs Inspections: Strengthening border security to detect
and prevent the smuggling of stolen artifacts, utilizing advanced technology and
specialized personnel.
4. Public Awareness Campaigns: Launching campaigns to educate the public on the
importance of cultural heritage and the risks of illicit artifact trade.
5. Financial and Technical Support for Restoration: Assign resources to assist
post-conflict regions in restoring damaged heritage sites, ensuring preservation for the
future.
Conclusion
Panama is dedicated to preserving cultural heritage and ensuring the protection of historical sites
and artifacts in conflict zones. By reinforcing laws, enhancing global cooperation, and promoting
public awareness, Panama aims to safeguard these irreplaceable treasures. Panama seeks to be a
strong advocate for cultural preservation, ensuring that the history and identity of all nations
remain protected and accessible for generations to come.
