The destruction of Ukraine’s cultural heritage over the last two years of full-scale war is not only an attempt to cause material damage but also a deliberate attack on Ukrainian identity. Therefore, in the process of rebuilding and restoring Ukraine, the issue of cultural heritage restoration is among the most pressing concerns. This week, we’ll discuss how Ukrainian civil society unites around cultural preservation. We’ll also share the detailed program of our forum “Ukrainian Cultural Heritage #ActForHeritage”, discuss our participation in the 12th Book Arsenal Festival and share updates from our partners.
Stay tuned and explore!
Since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the number of destroyed or damaged cultural sites has reached 1,062 objects. According to the report from the Ministry of Culture and Informational Policy of Ukraine, among the 18 surveyed regions, the cultural heritage of the Kharkiv region suffered the most – 299 objects.
At the same time, Ukrainians are ready to financially contribute to the country’s reconstruction process, including support for the restoration of cultural sites.
Civil society news
USAID/ENGAGE will host the second Forum on Safeguarding of Ukrainian Cultural Heritage
On May 30-31, we will host the second “Ukrainian Cultural Heritage #ActForHeritage” Forum in Kyiv. The event will bolster a platform for dialogue to preserve and protect Ukrainian cultural heritage among civil society, government bodies, the cultural expert community, and international donor organizations. Over the course of two days, participants, including civil activists from across Ukraine, representatives of government agencies, and international colleagues, will engage in discussions and explore ways to preserve Ukraine’s rich cultural heritage.
The online broadcast will be available on the USAID/ENGAGE Facebook page.
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USAID/ENGAGE Supports Arsenal Book Fair to Raise Awareness of Ukrainian Culture
From May 30 to June 2 the XII International Book Arsenal Festival will take place in Kyiv. Organized by Mystetskyi Arsenal with the support of USAID/ENGAGE, this year’s festival will focus on war and Ukrainians’ resilience.
Among the events organized by USAID/ENGAGE, the Yellow-Blue exhibition by Pictoric will showcase Ukrainian material and immaterial heritage. Additionally, in collaboration with the Center for Civil Liberties, USAID/ENGAGE is co-organizing poetry readings, “Hold On! I’m Holding On: Poems from and about Captivity,” where renowned poets and actors will voice the experiences of Ukrainians held in Russia’s captivity.
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The Crimean Institute for Strategic Studies Partners with the Prosecutor General’s Office to Protect Cultural Heritage
On May 23, the Crimean Institute for Strategic Studies participated in the International Council of Experts meeting organized by the Office of the Prosecutor General. The meeting aimed to enhance cooperation between the public and law enforcement agencies regarding the protection of cultural heritage and holding those responsible for crimes accountable.
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Center for Civil Liberties Assesses the Need for Elections in Ukraine
On May 22, the Center for Civil Liberties organized a human rights club on the topic, “Elections 2024: (Lack of) Legitimacy of Zelensky.” Legal experts debated the current necessity and feasibility of holding elections in Ukraine. Participants agreed that despite Russia’s narratives, the legitimacy of the Ukrainian president during wartime is unquestionable.
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All-Ukrainian Association of Music Events (UAME) Raises Awareness about Ukraine at European Music Festivals
On May 25th, the All-Ukrainian Association of Music Events (UAME) announced the Music Saves Ukraine 2024 festival season. The initiative will cover 16 major music festivals and aims to raise awareness about Ukraine. The CSO will present exhibitions, special zones, documentary screenings, Ukrainian merchandise, and other activities to raise awareness of the war in Ukraine.
Destroying Cultural Heritage: Explosive Weapons’ effects and on Cultural Heritage in Populated Areas
The ongoing bombing and shelling of the populated areas of Ukraine cause significant damage to Ukrainian cultural heritage. In the recent report by Human Rights Watch and the Harvard Law School’s International Human Rights Clinic, authors examine the immediate and long-term harm from the use of explosive weapons in populated areas on cultural heritage. Researchers illustrate the vulnerability of cultural heritage to explosive weapons in populated areas and provide recommendations to strengthen their protection.