
Abstract
National security and cultural heritage protection are connected in several ways. Cultural policy as a component of security policy plays a crucial role in promoting social cohesion, diplomatic relations, international cooperation, and regional stability. Instrumental in shaping and promoting national identity, cultural heritage fosters unity among citizens. Safeguarding cultural heritage can contribute to national cohesion and resilience, which are essential components of national security. Caring for culture is not only necessary for maintaining history but also for sustaining economic growth and stability. Protecting and preserving a nation's culture can enhance its international reputation, strengthen diplomatic relations, and promote peaceful cooperation with other countries. During the 2003 Iraq War and the conflict against ISIL and other terrorist groups, evidence demonstrated that funds generated as a result of looting and illegal trafficking of artifacts were used by insurgents to fund their terrorist activities, armed conflict, and other illegal actions. Protecting sites and artifacts is therefore also essential in reducing security threats and safeguarding national interests. This combination of factors has resulted in changes to U.S. policy and programming, particularly in the areas of U.S. foreign policy, cultural policy, and law enforcement. This Article explores how the real or perceived relationship between threatened cultural heritage and national security developed, how this relationship has changed U.S. foreign and cultural policy, and whether these changes are for the better or the worse from a broader policy perspective, particularly with respect to the goal of cultural heritage preservation."
Start Page
209
Recommended Citation
Kersel, Morag M. and Gerstenblith, Patty
(2025)
"Cultural Heritage and Security Policy,"
University of Chicago Legal Forum: Vol. 2024, Article 6.
Available at:
https://chicagounbound.uchicago.edu/uclf/vol2024/iss1/6