Intentional destruction of cultural heritage: Evidence and responses in Syria and Iraq

Intentional destruction of cultural heritage during intrastate and ethnonationalist conflict is a well-known but little studied phenomenon often designed to erase the presence and history of a rival social or ethnic group. Cases of purposeful damage have been widely reported during recent events in Syria and Iraq. Yet despite considerable scholarship directed toward violations of civil and political rights during these and other conflicts, there is a general tendency to view damage to cultural heritage as an unfortunate collateral outcome, rather than as a common tactic of intimidation and subjugation. Although prior research suggests that the purposeful destruction of cultural heritage may escalate a conflict, few studies have identified factors leading to escalation or what practical measures may protect heritage sites and the people who care about them in a conflict situation. This symposium explores this problem in the context of recent events in Syria and Iraq. In looking at a series of cases of the intentional destruction to heritage sites, panelists will discuss the social dynamics involved, methods employed in documentation, interventions that have occurred or are currently underway, the legal implications of damage to cultural heritage, and the responsibilities of museums and other heritage professionals.