Fighting Against the Illicit Trafficking of Sudanese Cultural Property and Strengthening Institutional Resilience for the Recovery and Protection of Cultural Heritage

In partnership with the Ministry of Culture, Information and tourism, the National Corporation for Antiquities and Museums and with generous support from Italy, Sudanese heritage experts, legal authorities, and international partners came together with one urgent purpose: to protect Sudan's cultural heritage from looting, loss, and disappearance, marking a critical step in strengthening Sudan's capacity to safeguard its museums, archaeological sites, archives, and living heritage during a time of conflict.

Discussions focused on combating illicit trafficking, reinforcing legal frameworks, and improving documentation and inventory systems, including the use of digital tools. Strengthened coordination between cultural institutions, law enforcement, customs, and judicial authorities was emphasised, alongside the essential role of communities and young people in safeguarding both tangible and intangible heritage.

28 technical papers were examined by 30 experts, resulting in clear priority actions. These include advancing emergency protection and documentation efforts, reinforcing anti-trafficking enforcement mechanisms, establishing secure and harmonised national heritage databases, enhancing rapid response coordination systems, promoting community- and youth-led safeguarding initiatives, and supporting the creative sector through phased recovery measures.

Aligned with UNESCO's Emergency Action Plan for Sudan, these outcomes aim to strengthen institutional resilience, advance restitution efforts, and contribute to long-term recovery and peacebuilding.

Sudan's heritage is not only about the past. It is identity and the foundation for rebuilding.

UNESCO Sudan Office remains committed to protecting it.

The workshops are funded by the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation