Connecting the dots between security, crisis management, development cooperation and cultural heritage protection

The European External Action Service (EEAS) has published the 2025 Report on the implementation of the EU Concept on Cultural Heritage in Conflicts and Crises, highlighting how the European Union is bringing together policies, instruments and partnerships into a more integrated approach to protecting cultural heritage globally.

Cultural heritage protection has become an increasingly integrated component of the EU's external action, linking diplomacy, security, crisis management, development cooperation, preparedness and international partnerships. EU's broader understanding is that heritage is not only a Cultural asset, but also a contributor to peace, resilience, social cohesion and sustainable development.

Supporting Ukraine's Cultural Heritage

The protection of Ukrainian cultural heritage remains a priority for the European Union. Since the beginning of Russia's war of aggression, the EU has mobilised more than EUR 50 million to support Ukraine's culture and creative sectors, including heritage protection, digitisation, professional training and measures against illicit trafficking.

The report highlights the launch of the Team Europe Approach for Cultural Heritage in Ukraine, bringing together EU Member States and institutions around a coordinated framework for the protection, conservation and recovery of cultural heritage.

Cultural Heritage as part of the EU Security Agenda

Cultural heritage protection is integrated into the Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP). Civilian CSDP missions contribute through activities linked to the rule of law, organised crime, border management, conflict prevention and confidence-building.

A dedicated network of cultural heritage focal points coordinated by the Civilian Operations Headquarters further strengthens cooperation, expertise and knowledge-sharing across missions.

Combating illicit trafficking

The illicit trafficking of cultural property remains a significant security challenge, often linked to organised crime, money laundering and, in certain contexts, terrorist financing.

The report highlights the implementation of the external aspects of the EU Action Plan against Trafficking in Cultural Goods, strengthened international cooperation, and the full application of the EU import regime for cultural goods, which reinforces provenance verification and customs controls across the Union.

Building preparedness and resilience

Cultural heritage protection has also been integrated in the EU preparedness architecture. The formal inclusion of Cultural Heritage Protection within the Union Civil Protection Mechanism marks an important step towards strengthening Europe's capacity to respond to disasters and crises affecting cultural heritage.

Looking ahead

The adoption of the Culture Compass for Europe further reinforces the links between culture, cultural heritage, security, resilience and international cooperation. As conflicts, disasters and illicit trafficking continue to threaten cultural heritage worldwide, the report underlines the European Union's commitment to safeguarding cultural heritage as an investment in peace, resilience and a more secure future.

Other information

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