The destruction of cultural property during times of conflict can amount to a war crime, a crime against humanity or genocide. Cultural property can include land, buildings, monuments, artistic works and other objects of ‘great importance to the cultural heritage of every people’.1 International law also protects things that are not physical, such as language, performance and religious practices.2 Culture is very important to humanity and to future generations. Its destruction makes our world less diverse and interesting. However, it is clear that communities are the most directly affected by attacks on their cultural property, which can harm their connection to their history and identity.
