Destruction of Cultural Heritage in Iraq, 2012-2015

Iraq, as the “cradle of human civilization,” faces severe threats to its cultural heritage due to globalization, industrialization, wars, and smuggling. Armed conflicts and illicit trade have caused large-scale destruction of historical sites. Compared to oil, the Kurdish issue, and economic reconstruction, cultural heritage protection has received insufficient attention in Middle East studies. Political, economic, and military factors contribute to the continued deterioration of Iraq's cultural heritage. UNESCO and other organizations integrate cultural heritage protection into humanitarian aid, security strategies, and peacebuilding efforts. Iraq must enhance its management system, legal framework, and international cooperation to safeguard its cultural heritage. Cultural heritage is crucial for Iraq’s identity, political stability, and global cultural diversity. Strengthening global collaboration and cultural exchanges is essential for the sustainable development of human civilization.