Preserving and protecting cultural property, art, and antiquities during conflict: Recent experiences in Syria, Iraq, and Libya

The American Society of Overseas Research Cultural Heritage Initiatives conducted a conflict-period program to preserve and protect cultural heritage in Syria, Iraq, and Libya from 2014-2018 during one of the most destructive periods for cultural assets in recent memory. The program, funded by the U. Department of State and other sources, combined in-country and remote monitoring, reporting, and fact-finding (MRF) with emergency stabilization and restoration projects. Many of the program’s staff are now engaged in post-conflict recovery efforts in these same regions, and this continuity is providing useful insights on the effectiveness of the conflict-period efforts. This chapter provides a post-program assessment of the successes, shortcomings, and lessons learned in relation to current trends in the field and emerging challenges.