The Ukrainian Cultural Foundation and UNESCO join forces to preserve cultural heritage

The Ukrainian Cultural Foundation (UCF) and UNESCO have signed a Cooperation Agreement that foresees the implementation of joint initiatives aimed at preserving Ukraine’s cultural heritage during the war and in the post-war recovery period. The document was signed by UCF Executive Director Ms. Anastasiia Obraztsova and Head of the UNESCO Office in Ukraine Ms. Chiara Dezzi Bardeschi.

The Agreement establishes a framework for long-term cooperation and covers the development of professional competencies, the exchange of expertise, the introduction of modern approaches to the digitalization of cultural heritage, and strengthening the sector’s capacity.

“The Agreement lays the foundation for systematic cooperation in the field of cultural heritage preservation – from training professionals and exchanging expertise to supporting cultural industries and community development. We aim not only to respond to the consequences of the war, but also to strengthen the sector’s capacity in the long term. That is why we focus on sustainable solutions. Partnership with UNESCO allows us to scale these practices and increase their effectiveness”, – said Ms. Anastasiia Obraztsova.

“Culture is a central component of Ukraine’s recovery, and this new cooperation will serve as an important tool to translate this principle into concrete actions. By combining the efforts of the Ukrainian Cultural Foundation and UNESCO, we aim to enhance the impact of our work by strengthening capacities, supporting the cultural and creative sectors, and expanding opportunities for the preservation and promotion of Ukrainian heritage and artistic expression worldwide”, – said Ms. Chiara Dezzi Bardeschi.

The parties will place special focus on working with regions affected by the war, where the preservation of cultural objects is particularly sensitive and requires systemic solutions.

Background

The Ukrainian Cultural Foundation is a state investor in the development of culture and creative industries. The institution was established in 2017 under the “On the Ukrainian Cultural Foundation” law. Project support is provided on a competitive basis across seven sectors: auditory arts, visual arts, audiovisual arts, cultural heritage, literature, performing and stage arts, and cultural and creative industries. Over nine years of operation, UCF has supported 3,207 projects that continue to shape society. The total investment amounts to nearly UAH 2.5 billion, reaching an audience of over 50 million people. Follow UCF on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

About UNESCO. With 194 Member States, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization promotes peace and security by leading international cooperation in education, science, culture, communication, and information. Headquartered in Paris, UNESCO operates in 54 countries and employs over 2,300 staff. It oversees more than 2,000 World Heritage sites, biosphere reserves, and global geoparks, as well as networks of creative, inclusive, sustainable, and learning cities; and a network of more than 13,000 associated schools, UNESCO Chairs, and educational and research institutions, supported by a global network of 200 National Commissions for UNESCO. The Director-General of UNESCO is Khaled El-Enany. “Since wars begin in the minds of men, it is in the minds of men that the defenses of peace must be constructed.” – UNESCO Constitution, 1945.