Mission statement and objectives

Heritage for Peace is a non-profit organization whose mission is to support all countries in conflict in their efforts to protect and safeguard cultural heritage during armed conflict. As an international group of heritage workers we believe that cultural heritage, and the protection thereof, can be used as a common ground for dialogue and therefore as a tool to enhance peace.

Heritage for Peace’s unique mission revolves around the protection of cultural heritage in zones of conflict. Our organization engages its staff’s local knowledge and previous expertise in conflict situations to promote capacity-building and knowledge transfer in order to create self-sufficiency in heritage management among heritage workers and local communities. As a neutral NGO unaffiliated with any government, Heritage for Peace is in a unique position to work with all parties in the conflict and reach all parts of the country with its programmes.

Heritage for Peace differs from other heritage organizations. While we can work with all parties, governmental and intergovernmental organizations can only work with heritage authorities that are supported by the recognized state authority, and with whom there are existing diplomatic relations. International professional heritage organizations can only support those heritage organizations that are a member of their professional organization, and many are constrained to work only with departments of the formally recognized government.