Topic: 2025-Protecting Heritage Sites and Cultural Artifacts in Conflict Zones
Country: South Africa
Delegate Name: Davis Mortenson
As the world sees itself increasingly divided along ethnic, economic, social and political lines, many replaceless heritage sites and cultural artifacts have found themselves in the crossfire of wars caused by this division. The destruction and looting of cultural heritage sites in conflict has escalated in rcent years, and armed conflicts have led to the inclusion of eight protected areas in sub-Saharan Africa on the List of World Heritage in Danger. South Africa recognizes that its diverse heritage is one of its most valuable national assets. The country’s policy on cultural heritage protection is based on the preservation of natural and cultural heritage sites, the protection of heritage sites for tourism and economic development, and the utilization of heritage sites for education and fostering national identity. South Africa has actively participated in international efforts ot protect cultural heritage, and is a signatory to the 1975 World Heritage Convention, and has successfully inscribed several sites on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Because South Africa has been a victim of colonialism as well as conflict and opression along ethnic and cultural lines, it, more than many other countries, well understands the heavy responsibility and burden that protecting cultural artifacts and heritage sites brings, especially in times of conflict. So, South Africa wishes to encourage a multi faceted approach to ensure this protection. South Africa wishes to encourage enhanced international cooperation, and provide aid to international organizations that dedicate aid, resources and expertise to the protection of cultural heritage in conflict zones. Additionally, South Africa wishes to develop and implement training programs for local communities, security forces, and peacekeeprs on the importance and methods of protecting cultural heritage conference.
We also wish to encourage all UN member states to ratify and implement the various international conventions related to the protection of cultural property, such as the 1954 Hague Convention. South Africa also wishes to launch global awareness campaigns to highlight the importance of protecting cultural heritage, targeting both the general public and potential parties to conflict. By implementing these proposals, South Africa believes that UNESCO can significantly enhance the protection of heritage sites and cultural artifacts in conflict zones, preserving these invaluable assets for future generations.
