The Ukrainian Red Cross Participated in the Ukraine Culture Security Forum

An international forum on Ukraine’s cultural security was recently held in Berlin. Its main focus was on strengthening international engagement with Ukraine and its culture, as well as countering the illicit trafficking and transfer of cultural property. Particular attention was given to the issue of restitution — the return of cultural assets unlawfully removed.

Speaking at the forum, Olena Kocherhina, Head of the International Humanitarian Law Unit at the Ukrainian Red Cross, stated:

“The restitution of cultural property is not an act of goodwill, but a legal obligation. Every return restores public access to cultural heritage. It reopens museum doors, brings back accurate catalogues, and allows people to see originals rather than copies.”

She also reminded participants of the rules of international humanitarian law that govern the return of cultural property unlawfully removed in times of war and occupation.

Events involving the Ukrainian Red Cross took place at the German Federal Foreign Office and the Embassy of Poland in Berlin.