ICBS - Statement by the International Committee of the Blue Shield on the
Destruction of Cultural Property in the Middle East
The International Committee of the Blue Shield (ICBS) is alarmed at reports
of damage to, and destruction of, cultural property occurring as a result of
continuing armed conflict in the areas administered by Israel and the
Palestinian Authority.
In making this statement, the International Committee of the Blue Shield
takes no position on any of the other issues surrounding the conflicts that
are taking place in the region.
Cultural property is priceless and irreplaceable, of vital importance not
only to each community, but also to humanity as a whole. This region is
universally recognized to have an extremely rich cultural heritage. The loss
of parts of that heritage would constitute an impoverishment of the heritage
of all the peoples of the world. It would therefore be a tragedy if this
were to happen whatever the cause. The ICBS therefore urges all parties to
initiate joint actions to protect the rich cultural heritage of the region.
In this connection it welcomes the recent decision of the Israel Supreme
Court to rule against a decree by the Israel Defence Forces ordering the
destruction of Mameluke and Ottoman houses in the old city of Hebron.
Whilst the ICBS is not currently in a position to assess reports of damage
and destruction to cultural property in the region, it is willing to respond
to any requests for technical assistance and coordination which may be
required, within the resources available.
ICBS urges all competent authorities in the region to take the greatest
possible care to protect the cultural heritage represented by the archives,
libraries, monuments and sites, and museums located in the area, including
the collections held in them, in order to ensure that they are safeguarded
for future generations
Adopted by the International Committee of the Blue Shield, 13 March 2003.



- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Change ICOM-L subscription options, unsubscribe, and search the
archives at:  http://home.ease.lsoft.com/archives/icom-l.html