On February 1, 2025, the first international conference on culture, “Cooperation for Resilience”, took place in Uzhhorod.
The event brought together representatives from Ukraine, 28 partner countries, the European Commission, and UNESCO. Notably, 20 delegations were led by Ministers or Deputy Ministers of Culture, showing strong international support for cultural cooperation.
The main outcome of the Conference was the adoption of the Declaration on Strengthening Cultural Sector Resilience in Ukraine. As of April 17, 2025, 31 countries have joined the Declaration.
It remains open for other partner countries and international organizations to sign.
The Declaration outlines joint efforts between Ukraine and the international community to protect cultural heritage, address ongoing threats, and rebuild cultural infrastructure damaged by war and other challenges.
A key proposal in the Declaration is the creation of a Ukrainian Heritage Fund. This Fund would help finance the restoration of museums, cultural monuments, and heritage sites across Ukraine.
The Declaration also supports forming a coalition to prevent and stop the Illicit trafficking of Ukrainian cultural property, in line with the 1970 UNESCO Convention.
Another important step is the planned Cultural Recovery Platform, which will support international cooperation, knowledge sharing, and coordinated efforts to rebuild Ukraine’s cultural sector.
The Declaration also supports the use of sanctions for crimes against cultural property.
At its core, it highlights the vital role of culture in strengthening national identity, promoting social unity, and supporting Ukraine’s long-term economic development.
The full text of the Declaration and the list of supporting countries can be found at the link below.
