ICOMOS Statement on Sudan

ICOMOS deplores the further escalation in fighting following the expiry last Saturday of the brokered ceasefire in Sudan. The internal conflict since April has already caused much human suffering – killing and injuring civilians, forcing them to flee, and dragging the country into a humanitarian crisis.

ICOMOS Sudan was created in March 2023 and our colleagues’ lives have been impacted directly and severely by the ongoing conflict.

ICOMOS stands in solidarity with the people and heritage community of Sudan. It is gravely concerned by growing reports of damage, looting and incursions to cultural heritage places – which we will keep on monitoring.

ICOMOS condemns any such attacks or endangering of Sudanese cultural heritage, as well as against cultural heritage institutions and professionals. It reminds all parties of obligations under the 1954 Hague Convention for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict to which Sudan acceded in 1970 and the 1972 World Heritage Convention which Sudan ratified in 1974, and their duties and responsibilities under international humanitarian law.

It appeals to all concerned to safeguard the Sudanese peoples’ history and heritage and hopes that a rapid and lasting solution to the crisis can be found.

Photo credits: Mohamed Zekry, Pexels