Topic: 2025-Protecting Heritage Sites and Cultural Artifacts in Conflict Zones
Country: United States of America
Delegate Name: Diego Picazo Erb-Downward
The United States of America recognizes the importance of protecting cultural heritage and artifacts, particularly in conflict zones where these invaluable assets are at risk of destruction, looting, and illegal trafficking. The U.S. remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding international agreements such as the 1954 Hague Convention for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict and its 1999 Protocol. Additionally, the United States supports and enforces measures outlined in United Nations Security Council Resolution 2347 (2017), which emphasizes the necessity of preventing the destruction of cultural property and prosecuting those who engage in its illicit trade.
Throughout history, the destruction of cultural heritage has been used as a weapon of war, erasing national identities and depriving future generations of their history. Modern conflicts, particularly in the Middle East and North Africa, have highlighted the vulnerability of heritage sites and cultural artifacts. The deliberate destruction of sites in Iraq, Syria, and Mali, along with the looting of museums and trafficking of antiquities, underscores the urgency of this issue. The United States has worked with UNESCO, INTERPOL, and other international bodies to curb these crimes and promote long-term preservation efforts.
The U.S. has taken a multi-pronged approach to addressing this issue. Legislative measures such as the Protect and Preserve International Cultural Property Act (2016) allow for stricter enforcement of laws preventing the illegal importation and sale of stolen cultural artifacts within U.S. borders. Through partnerships with institutions such as the Smithsonian Institution, the FBI’s Art Crime Team, and the Cultural Heritage Coordinating Committee, efforts to track and recover looted artifacts have been significantly strengthened. Military training programs conducted by the U.S. Department of Defense ensure that armed forces deployed in conflict zones recognize and respect cultural landmarks. Additionally, the U.S. provides funding for international preservation projects through grants and emergency response initiatives to protect endangered heritage sites.
The United States encourages the international community to adopt a proactive and sustainable approach to cultural heritage protection by strengthening international enforcement mechanisms, expanding INTERPOL’s authority, and enhancing international cooperation to dismantle illicit trafficking networks. Military awareness and training must be improved to ensure that all peacekeeping and military operations integrate cultural heritage protection into their strategic planning. Investment in digital preservation, using advanced technology such as 3D scanning and satellite imaging to document and reconstruct cultural heritage sites at risk, is crucial. Expanding legal and financial support by encouraging more nations to implement strict national laws aligned with international conventions and providing financial assistance to countries struggling to protect their cultural heritage during conflicts will further bolster these efforts. Community engagement and local capacity building should be prioritized, involving local communities in heritage protection efforts to foster a sense of ownership and responsibility over cultural landmarks.
The United States affirms its dedication to protecting cultural heritage and urges the international community to take coordinated and decisive action. By strengthening enforcement, enhancing education, and leveraging technology, UNESCO and its member states can ensure the survival of cultural heritage for future generations. The U.S. stands ready to work with allies, international organizations, and local communities to safeguard our shared human history and cultural legacy.
