Contribution of international archival, library and museum organizations (ICA, ICOM, ICOMOS, IFLA) to preservation and protection of Ukraine cultural heritage

Abstract

The goal of the research is to examine the global initiatives of leading international organizations in the field of cultural heritage preservation during emergencies, analyze their official statements on the Russian military aggression, identify their contribution to the protection of Ukrainian cultural assets, and assess the effectiveness of the measures taken and the performance of international cooperation in this area. Methodology is based on the systemic and comparative analysis, allowing the determination of the main trends in the activities of international organizations in preserving cultural heritage during emergencies. The study applies empirical and theoretical methods (analysis, synthesis, and generalization), the principle of scientific objectivity, methods of content analysis and monitoring of official information resources. Scientific novelty. This study provides the first comprehensive analysis of ICA, ICOM, ICOMOS, and IFLA initiatives in cultural heritage preservation during emergencies. It highlights their contribution to protecting Ukraine’s cultural assets amid Russian military aggression and examines their official statements shaping international discourse on the destruction and safeguarding of cultural heritage in Ukraine. Conclusions. The research shows the crucial role of ICA, ICOM, ICOMOS, and IFLA in developing strategies and mechanisms for the preservation of cultural heritage during emergencies. Key factors contributing to the effectiveness of their initiatives include: the development of international standards, recommendations, and protocols regarding the protection of cultural assets during emergencies; the provision of technical, financial, and informational support; and the implementation of educational programmes for training specialists in the field of cultural heritage preservation. An analysis of these organizations’ official statements on Russia’s aggression and the measures taken to protect Ukrainian cultural heritage demonstrates their solidarity and active involvement. Ukraine’s wartime experience is noted as crucial for rethinking and improving global strategies for cultural heritage preservation.