Anastasia Bondar, the Deputy Minister of Culture and Strategic Communications of Ukraine, took part in the 19th session of the UNESCO Committee for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict on December 11. During the session, participants approved Ukraine’s initiative to place two additional sites under enhanced protection.
The National Historical and Memorial Reserve “Babyn Yar” and the Odesa Literary Museum have been added to the International List of Cultural Property under Enhanced Protection.
Previously, 25 Ukrainian heritage sites were included in this list, primarily those on UNESCO’s World Heritage List or Tentative List, excluding sites in temporarily occupied territories.
“Today marks the 1,022nd day of the war. The Ministry of Culture and Strategic Communications has documented 1,222 cases of cultural heritage destruction—an average of more than one site damaged daily by russia. This does not include damage to cultural infrastructure or the looting of museums and archaeological collections. These attacks seek not only to destroy physical landmarks but also to erase the nation’s identity and history. “Babyn Yar” serves as a solemn reminder of one of humanity’s darkest chapters, highlighting the importance of memory and the fight against hatred. Despite relentless shelling, the Odesa Literary Museum remains a steadfast symbol of Ukrainian culture. I deeply appreciate the support of member states and call for international legal accountability for the destruction of cultural property under enhanced protection. This is essential not only for Ukraine but for upholding international law and preserving our shared global heritage”, stated Anastasia Bondar during her online address.
The session also addressed international support for Ukraine, efforts to protect cultural property, and a retrospective inventory of items under enhanced protection. Committee members voiced solidarity with Ukraine and deep concern over the deliberate destruction of its cultural sector by russian forces.
