Skopje, 8 July 2024 (MIA) - The illicit trafficking of cultural property is a global issue that warrants a global response, as well as strong international cooperation, especially in the Western Balkans where cultural heritage is rich and diverse. For this Government, and for me as Minister, the protection and preservation of the cultural property of our country is a top priority, Minister of Culture and Tourism Zoran Ljutkov said at Monday’s opening of the workshop “Fighting Illicit Trafficking of Cultural Property in the Western Balkans” organized by the UNESCO Regional Bureau for Science and Culture in Europe. 

In his address, Ljutkov voiced gratitude to UNESCO and the Regional Bureau for the continued financial and logistical support that have helped realize numerous initiatives and projects aimed at implementing UNESCO’s conventions and programs for the protection of cultural heritage. 

Ljutkov voiced gratitude to UNESCO and the Regional Bureau for the continued financial and logistical support that have helped realize numerous initiatives and projects aimed at implementing UNESCO’s conventions and programs for the protection of cultural heritage. 

“Our region is renowned for its rich history and culture, but also for its historical context that makes cultural properties vulnerable to theft and illicit trafficking. Not only does this harm the cultural heritage, but it also undermines the economies and social stability of our countries. That’s why it is necessary for all countries from the region to jointly unite all capacities they have at their disposal and cooperate in the activities aimed at tackling and recovering stolen and illegally exported objects,” Ljutkov said, pointing to the example of the country’s cooperation with the Republic of Albania as a result of which 20 icons that were illegally exported from Macedonian churches and monasteries were recovered. 

The Culture Minister also stressed the importance of raising public awareness over the value of cultural heritage and the damage caused by illicit trafficking.  

“Here I would like to highlight the importance of international cooperation and assistance from organizations such as UNESCO. They play a key role in raising awareness, providing expert assistance and encouraging legislative reform. Their assistance is invaluable for our joint efforts,” Ljutkov said. 

The workshop was also addressed by Siniša Šešum and Matteo Rosati from the UNESCO Regional Bureau for Science and Culture in Europe. 

“By fighting the illicit trafficking of cultural property, we aren’t only tackling criminal activities, but also direct attacks on the cultural heritage, and most importantly, the cultural identity of the community and the entire country. That’s why the fight against illicit trafficking isn’t only a legal obligation, but also a moral obligation of every individual,” Šešum said in his address. 

Rosati noted that the fight against illicit trafficking of cultural property doesn’t only concern great material value, but also objects with great emotional and symbolic value. 

The five-day workshop is aimed at raising awareness and building capacities for the fight against illicit trafficking of cultural property. 

The project is financed by the European Commission and implemented by UNESCO through its Regional Bureau for Science and Culture in Europe located in Venice and its Antenna Office in Sarajevo. 

Photo: MIA