In a pivotal initiative, a Swansea University expert is guiding Irish peacekeepers on safeguarding cultural heritage amid conflict. Professor Nigel Pollard, a renowned authority on cultural preservation in wartime, has taken the reins as the lead civilian tutor at a specialised Cultural Property Protection Course, aimed at equipping the Irish Defence Forces for their UN peacekeeping missions.
This training aligns with the ongoing efforts of UNIFIL forces in southern Lebanon, where the destruction of cultural sites is a pressing issue. The course also marks the 70th anniversary of the 1954 Hague Convention, highlighting the global importance of safeguarding cultural property during crises. Collaborating with Blue Shield International, akin to a ‘Red Cross’ for cultural heritage, the programme educates military personnel on advising commanders effectively about cultural site protection.
Participants included members from the Irish Defence Forces, Garda Síochána, and various European armed forces, bringing a wealth of experience from the UNIFIL operational area. The curriculum featured virtual sessions with the Lebanese Armed Forces and a practical exercise at St Patrick’s Cathedral, immersing participants in real-world scenarios. Pollard’s extensive background includes advising the UK military Cultural Property Protection Unit, reflecting his invaluable role in military training.
Professor Pollard’s research is equally impressive, focusing on the impact of war on cultural heritage, such as his work on the Allied bombing of Pompeii during WWII. His current project, funded by the Leverhulme Trust, explores how Allied soldiers experienced cultural sites in Italy, examining social factors like class and education.
As Professor Pollard poignantly states, “Cultural heritage is fundamentally about people, not just buildings and historic sites. Protecting it can strengthen groups who are under stress…” This sentiment underscores the profound connection between cultural preservation and community recovery.
Professor Nigel Pollard from Swansea University has trained Irish peacekeepers on safeguarding cultural heritage during conflicts. His recent course for the Irish Defence Forces focused on protecting cultural sites in UN missions, coinciding with the Hague Convention anniversary. Participants included military personnel from various nations, enhancing their ability to advise commanders on cultural preservation. Pollard’s extensive research highlights the vital relationship between culture and community recovery in wartime.
In summary, the training conducted by Professor Nigel Pollard is essential in promoting the protection of cultural heritage in conflict zones. By consulting with military forces and facilitating comprehensive training, he emphasizes the importance of safeguarding cultural sites as a means of fostering resilience in communities impacted by war. Pollard’s insights not only shine a light on the current challenges faced during peacekeeping missions but also inspire an appreciation for the enduring value of cultural heritage.
Original Source: www.swansea.ac.uk
