Topic: 2025-Protecting Heritage Sites and Cultural Artifacts in Conflict Zones
Country: Germany
Delegate Name: Alexander Stillman
Cultural heritage and artifacts are important parts of both individual culture and human history. Unfortunately, the deliberate destruction, looting, and trafficking of cultural artifacts undermine global cultural diversity and damage historical knowledge. Germany recognizes the urgent need to protect heritage sites and cultural artifacts in conflict zones and strongly advocates for reinforced international laws and proactive strategies to address this major issue.
Germany acknowledges that the destruction of cultural heritage in conflict zones is not merely collateral damage but often a targeted strategy aimed at erasing cultural identities and historical legacies. The 1954 Hague Convention for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict provides a legal framework for the protection of cultural property. However, Germany believes that additional measures must be taken in order to prevent heritage destruction and ensure post-conflict restoration.
As a signatory of the 1970 UNESCO Convention on the Means of Prohibiting and Preventing the Illicit Import, Export, and Transfer of Ownership of Cultural Property, Germany enforces strict regulations on artifact trafficking. The nation also supports UNESCO’s Emergency Fund for Heritage Protection, which aids in the immediate preservation of cultural assets in crisis situations.
Germany remains steadfast in its commitment to multilateralism and diplomatic cooperation to protect cultural heritages in conflict zones. The delegation is prepared to work with all nations to draft and implement resolutions that reinforce cultural protection mechanisms. Germany wishes to work together with all countries to ensure the protection of these many valuable artifacts to guard the significant cultural heritage that they carry for many groups across the world and to allow future generations to appreciate their importance and cultural value.
Through these concerted efforts, Germany strives to uphold its role as a global leader in cultural preservation, advocating for robust legal, technological, and cooperative measures to protect the heritage of not just individual cultures, but also the important history these artifacts represent and teach to all of humanity.
