Topic: 2025-Protecting Heritage Sites and Cultural Artifacts in Conflict Zones
Country: Argentina
Delegate Name: Lena Landau
Protecting Heritage Sites and Cultural Artifacts in Conflict Zones is an important part of the documentation of our world history. As past events have shown, armed conflicts often lead to the destruction of ancient monuments, religious sites and culturally important artifacts, leaving irreparable damage and erasing parts of history; leading to terrorist groups and criminal organizations trafficking stolen artifacts to fund their activities. Weak laws and the lack of enforcement of such contribute to problems mentioned above; making the illegal process of transferring stolen cultural artifacts an easy matter for all. But also Natural disasters and wars make it difficult to restore and protect cultural sites. With our diverse and rich culture and history, the Argentine Republic is dedicated to work on long term solutions to help protect heritage sites and cultural artifacts in conflict zones.
There are many important international resolution statements and conventions related to the topic of protecting heritage sites and cultural artifacts in conflict zones, including the UNESCO World Heritage Convention, the UNESCO 1970 Convention, the UN General Assembly Resolution (A/79/L.16) and the UN Security Council Resolution 2347 of 2017, which Argentina has signed and supported. Additionally, we ratified many national policies regarding the combat the Illicit Traffic of Cultural Goods (Decree 1166/2003), integrated the incorporation of the Federal Administration of Public Revenue into the Argentine Committee to strengthen efforts against the illicit trafficking of cultural goods (Decree 1073/2004), created a national register for archeological collections, objects, and offenders to enhance inventory and registry processes (Resolution 1134/2003) and included constitutional provisions; Article 41 of the Argentine Constitution mandates federal authorities to protect and preserve the cultural heritage. Furthermore, Argentina hosted the 15th General Assembly in Buenos Aires, 1986. In this assembly resolutions were adopted emphasizing the preservation of cultural and natural heritage and the need for professional training in museums. These actions reflect our commitment to safeguarding cultural heritage, both within its borders and in collaboration on an international level.
Argentina is committed to protecting global heritage and ensuring future generations can access their cultural history. We recognize the increasing danger and challenge of the protection of heritage sites and cultural artifacts in conflict zones and would like to contribute to stronger International Laws & Cooperation, as well as technology and awareness to safeguard cultural sites in conflict zones.
