UNESCO condemns the bombings that affected several historic buildings and schools in the historic center of Odessa (Ukraine), a site inscribed on the List of World Heritage in Danger. The Organization sent several experts to the field on Saturday.
On the night of Thursday, November 14 to Friday, November 15, a large-scale Russian attack bombed the historic center of Odessa, protected from January 2023 by the UNESCO World Heritage Convention. The preliminary evaluation reveals damage to around twenty buildings, including ancient, religious buildings and some educational buildings.
UNESCO condemns thes attacks, which violate international law, and expresses its support to the victims, the population and local authorities.
the representative of UNESCO in Ukraine met on Friday evening with representatives of the Odessa City Council and a mission of experts from the Organization visited the area on Saturday to collaborate in the assessment of the damage and plan measures to restore the security of the buildings.
UNESCO reiterates its call for an end to all attacks on cultural property protected by widely ratified international normative instruments.
How does international law enforce the protection of cultural heritage in conflict zones like Odessa?
Q&A with Dr. Anna Petrenko, Cultural Heritage Expert on UNESCO’s Response to the Recent Attacks on Odessa
Time.news Editor: Dr. Petrenko, thank you for joining us today. UNESCO has recently condemned the bombings in Odessa that affected several historic buildings and schools. Can you explain the meaning of Odessa on the UNESCO World Heritage List?
Dr. Anna Petrenko: thank you for having me. Odessa is not only a remarkable city with rich cultural heritage but has been specifically recognized by UNESCO for its unique architecture and ancient importance. Inscribed on the World Heritage in Danger list since January 2023, it symbolizes how conflict can threaten irreplaceable cultural treasures. These bombings are a critical violation of efforts to protect such sites.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned the attacks represent a violation of international law.Can you elaborate on what international standards are in place to protect cultural heritage?
Dr. Anna Petrenko: Absolutely. The 1954 Hague convention for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict is the foundational treaty that protects cultural sites during wartime. It’s significant that UNESCO reiterated its call for an end to attacks on cultural property as these attacks not only destroy our history but also affect future generations. The laws are designed to safeguard and preserve world heritage, and when these laws are violated, it sends a troubling message about the respect for culture and history.
Time.news Editor: Following these bombings, what steps is UNESCO taking to assess and restore the damaged sites in Odessa?
Dr. Anna Petrenko: UNESCO has sent a team of experts to Odessa to assess the damages and to collaborate with local authorities. Their immediate goal is to evaluate the extent of destruction to approximately twenty buildings, including important religious and educational sites. Following the assessment, they will work on a extensive plan for restoration and security measures to protect these sites from future attacks.
Time.news Editor: This incident highlights the broader implications for cultural heritage in conflict zones. How can communities and individuals protect their cultural heritage in times of war?
Dr. Anna Petrenko: Community engagement is crucial.Firstly, raising awareness about both local and international laws protecting cultural heritage is vital. Secondly,documenting heritage sites through photography and archival efforts can serve as a means of evidence for reconstruction. establishing community programs that promote cultural education can foster a collective identity that values heritage, potentially increasing support for preservation efforts even during conflicts.
Time.news Editor: What can our readers do to support international efforts in protecting cultural heritage?
Dr. Anna Petrenko: Readers can become advocates by educating themselves and others about the importance of cultural heritage. Supporting organizations like UNESCO through donations and participating in local cultural preservation initiatives can enhance efforts toward safeguarding these sites. Additionally, engaging with policymakers to emphasize the importance of protecting cultural heritage in legislative contexts is essential.
time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Petrenko, for your insights on this critical issue. The attacks on Odessa serve as a poignant reminder of the fragility of our shared cultural heritage.
Dr. Anna Petrenko: Thank you for having me, and let’s hope we can work towards a future where heritage is protected and cherished worldwide.