UNESCO Lists Kyiv and Lviv World Heritage Sites as ‘In Danger’ Due to Russian Conflict

September 16, 2023

UNESCO, the United Nations cultural organization, has designated the World Heritage Sites in the Ukrainian cities of Kyiv and Lviv as “in danger” due to the ongoing conflict sparked by Russia’s invasion. This decision, made during UNESCO’s annual world heritage committee meeting in Riyadh, is a crucial step towards safeguarding these historic sites. The inclusion of Kyiv’s Saint Sophia Cathedral and the medieval structures of Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra monastery on the List of World Heritage in Danger allows for increased financial and technical assistance to implement emergency measures.

UNESCO expressed concern that the Russian offensive poses a significant threat to these sites, compromising their protection. Both Kyiv’s Saint Sophia Cathedral, dating back to the 11th century, and Lviv’s historic center, near the Polish border, have faced constant danger since the invasion began on February 24, 2022.

Why did UNESCO decide to designate Kyiv and Lviv’s World Heritage Sites as “in danger”?

UNESCO made this decision because the ongoing Russian conflict poses a severe threat to the historic sites in Kyiv and Lviv. The organization believes that optimal conditions for protecting these sites can no longer be guaranteed, necessitating their inclusion on the List of World Heritage in Danger.

What are the implications of including these sites on the List of World Heritage in Danger?

Designating these sites as “in danger” opens the door to additional financial and technical aid, allowing for the implementation of new emergency measures to protect and preserve them.

How long have these sites been under threat?

UNESCO noted that these historic sites have been under a constant threat since the Russian invasion began on February 24, 2022, making their inclusion on the list imperative.

Were there any previous actions taken by UNESCO related to Ukrainian heritage sites?

Yes, in January, UNESCO added the center of Ukraine’s Black Sea port of Odesa to the World Heritage List. Unfortunately, in July, Odesa’s city center and an Orthodox cathedral were damaged in a Russian strike, leading to international condemnation.

What does this decision indicate about the impact of the conflict on cultural heritage?

UNESCO’s decision underscores the significant impact of the ongoing conflict on cultural heritage, emphasizing the need for urgent measures to protect and preserve these historical sites amidst the turmoil of war.

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