70 years ago, in May 1954, the Hague Convention for the Protection of Cultural Property in the event of Armed Conflict, together with its first Protocol, was adopted. It was the first international multilateral treaty exclusively focused on the protection of cultural heritage. It has paved the way for manifold efforts and instruments for the protection of cultural heritage, including the fight against impunity of perpetrators, which remains crucial.

The EU supports the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s (UNESCO), which plays a key role in disseminating and monitoring the compliance of the agreements on the protection of cultural property.

We deplore when cultural heritage is damaged or destroyed in armed conflict today and we condemn the deliberate targeting of cultural heritage sites.

Any damage to cultural property affects humankind’s heritage.

The European Union will continue to advocate for the universal respect of the Hague Convention, help partners to stabilise and protect cultural heritage, and promote documentation and investigation of crimes against cultural heritage with the aim to ensure accountability for the perpetrators of these crimes.

Cultural heritage is a tool for reconciliation and social cohesion. It is a driver of economic development and a solid ground for societal resilience that can support a sustainable recovery and lasting peace.