In war, individuals are vulnerable not only physically but also in terms of their cultural identity, and the obliteration of cultural heritage often becomes a central issue. This is particularly the case in armed conflicts with an ethnic, cultural or religious character. In some regions, cultural heritage consists more of monuments and objects; it is a “tangible” heritage, mostly protected by the law of armed conflict.
Here you can read the full article of Christiane Johannot-Gradis*
Christiane Johannot-Gradis worked at the ICRC for many years as a delegate and jurist in the field and at headquarters. She also co-founded and co-directs an international non-governmental organization, Traditions for Tomorrow, which works to protect intangible cultural heritage in Latin America, in particular in conflict or post-conflict situations.
