Doha: Participants in the 4th edition of the Doha Conference on Combating the Illicit Trafficking of Cultural Property condemned the Israeli occupation's destruction of cultural institutions and heritage sites in Gaza, Palestine.
This came during the launch of the conference organized by Qatar National Library (QNL) and attended by international experts, policymakers, and government officials to enhance institutional readiness and strengthen global cooperation in safeguarding cultural heritage during times of crisis.
It was held under the theme "Crisis Preparedness and Cultural Heritage Protection: from Prevention to Recovery.”
In his opening remarks, His Excellency Dr. Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al-Kawari, Minister of State and President of Qatar National Library, stated: “The Fourth Doha Conference on Combating the Illicit Trafficking of Cultural Property is not merely a platform for dialogue; it is a call to intensify regional and international cooperation, to unite the efforts of institutions and global partners, and to activate practical programs such as Himaya, launched by the Library to fight the illicit trade in cultural heritage and to build the capacity of institutions in confronting the challenges that threaten the identity and collective memory of nations. Protecting heritage is a shared responsibility and a moral and human duty that safeguards the identity of peoples, supports the stability of societies, and builds bridges of dialogue between civilizations.”
On the significance of the timing of the conference, he added: “Today we meet at a time when we are witnessing the systematic destruction of cultural memory in Gaza, where mosques, markets, libraries, and rare manuscripts have been struck by bombardments, a cultural and humanitarian catastrophe that calls for an urgent response from the international community. In this context, Qatar National Library’s hosting of the fourth edition of the Doha Conference on Combating the Illicit Trafficking of Cultural Property reflects its deep commitment to its strategic role in safeguarding cultural heritage, coordinating regional partnerships, sharing expertise, innovating in digital preservation, and affirming Qatar’s standing as a custodian of human and civilizational heritage.”
“Today’s conference is about taking collective action to protect our cultural heritage. Together, we are establishing a path toward more resilient and better-prepared institutions capable of confronting crises,” said Tan Huism, Executive Director of Qatar National Library.
She added: “Qatar National Library is committed to its mission to safeguard cultural heritage for future generations. Effective protection demands a comprehensive approach that integrates proactive planning, legal and policy alignment, and crisis preparedness.We will continue to work collaboratively to ensure that libraries, museums, and cultural institutions have the expertise and resources needed to respond swiftly and effectively in times of crisis.”
Building on this vision, the four-day conference continues with a comprehensive agenda that includes sessions on innovative approaches to heritage protection, emergency preparedness, law enforcement collaboration, and post-crisis recovery.
Italy's ambassador to Qatar, H E Paolo Toschi, commented on the occasion: “Italy is proud to participate in the 4th Doha Conference on Combating the Illicit Trafficking of Cultural Property hosted by Qatar National Library. The protection of cultural heritage is not only a moral duty but a shared responsibility to safeguard the memory, identity, and creativity of humanity. For centuries, Italy has been at the forefront of preserving cultural treasures and supporting global efforts against their illegal trafficking.”
Italy’s contribution to the conference will focus on conservation and archeology, highlighting the decisive role played by museums, cultural institutions, and collectors in preserving and protecting historical artifacts. By promoting responsible stewardship, transparency in acquisitions, and collaboration between public and private actors, Italy underscores the importance of ensuring that cultural heritage remains accessible to society as a whole, preserving its public and educational role.”
French Ambassador to Qatar, H E Arnaud Pescheux, reflected that France is proud to assert its commitment and determination in the fight against illicit trafficking of cultural property, and wishes to maintain and strengthen ties with Qatar, at all levels of government, relevant public administrations, and museums in both countries, in order to combat together this scourge that threatens cultural heritage.
The U.S. Embassy in Doha's Chargé d’Affairesa.i., Stefanie Altman-Winans, stated, "Protecting cultural heritage is not just about safeguarding the past—it is about preserving identity, resilience, and the shared bonds between nations. The United States is proud of our leadership in cultural heritage preservation and protection. By working together across disciplines and borders, we can help you to ensure that the treasures of the Middle East and beyond are protected for future generations."
The conference also includes a visit to the National Museum of Qatar and stands as a testament to Qatar’s ongoing commitment to preserving cultural heritage across the region.
