This article and presentation are an overview of some of the foreign policies implemented regarding cultural heritage protection during wartimes. With specific focus on the Gulf Wars in Iraq and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This article follows historical examples prior to World War II and post World War II in primarily the Western world. With a background in international laws that have been created such as the 1954 Hague Convention for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict. There are also current technological abilities that are being implemented to help the survey and understanding of destruction on cultural sites that should continue to be developed. This article argues for an increased focus on cultural heritage protection and preemptive measures that should be put in place by cultural institutions to protect their heritage. Information professionals are stewards of cultural heritage and it is important for the awareness of possible disaster be taken into account when it comes to the preservation of artifacts and heritage sites.

Sylvie Freedman

Sylvie Freedman

Sylvie Freedman is soon to be graduate of Pratt School of Information, receiving their MLIS in Spring 2025. They also hold a BA in Visual Studies and a BFA in Fine Arts with a minor in printmaking from The New School. As an artist and an art history researcher they have spent their time in library school with a strong interest in rare books, special collections, and art librarianship. Their art historical background and interest in visual and cultural studies guide their work as an information professional. With a special interest in the impact of war and other political factors on cultural heritage and the information professionals role in preserving and uplifting art and information in the face of threat. This year they had a fellowship at the Watson Library within the Metropolitan Museum of Art and are presenting about the project that was completed there.
Sylvie Freedman

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