HE ROLE OF INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS IN PROTECTING THE YEMENI CULTURAL HERITAGE ON THE LIGHT OF INTERNATIONAL TREATIES AND AGREEMENTS

Abstract

The Yemeni Cultural Heritage faces numerous risks, including looting, sabotage, and destruction across Yemen's governorates. UNESCO reports an ancient graveyard found in the Al-Jawf Governorate, where an entire cemetery with over 600 gravestones was excavated and sold in local and Arab markets.

This research aims to assess the damage and losses suffered by Yemeni cultural heritage, outline key international conventions regarding cultural heritage protection, and examine the role of international organizations in safeguarding Yemen's cultural heritage.

Employing an analytical-descriptive approach and content analysis, this study delves into literature and reports from international and regional organizations dedicated to cultural heritage and historical monuments. It uncovers the efforts of these organizations in protecting Yemen's cultural heritage.

The research uncovers extensive damage to Yemeni antiquities caused by   looting, theft, illegal trafficking, warfare, terrorist attacks, and natural disasters. 

It identifies prominent international conventions relevant to cultural heritage protection and highlights the crucial role of international organizations, particularly UNESCO. These organizations provide financial and technical support, conduct renovations, host seminars and workshops, offer training courses, issue statements and condemnations, and collaborate with stakeholders to impose bans on Yemeni antiquities importation.

In conclusion, cultural heritage belongs to all humanity, representing national identity, fostering communication, and bearing witness to civilization. Its preservation is vital for the nation's economy and requires collective efforts from individuals, institutions, and organizations to prevent looting, tampering, and trafficking.