The UAE, UNESCO, and ICCROM unveil a comprehensive training guide, expanding on their collaborative capacity-building initiative for the recovery of Mosul’s cultural heritage.
The publication of this guide follows a two-year capacity-building program in Mosul, Iraq, aimed at developing local expertise for heritage recovery. This initiative targeted 49 young graduates from local universities in the fields of engineering and architecture, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to become heritage recovery experts.
Developed through extensive fieldwork, in cooperation with the University of Mosul, the guide showcases UNESCO and ICCROM's dedication to knowledge-sharing and capacity-building in heritage recovery, addressing the growing global challenges posed by conflicts and disasters. It outlines key objectives, such as empowering local institutions, equipping professionals with tools to tackle post-conflict challenges, and providing a roadmap for recovery projects that emphasize community engagement, sustainability, and peacebuilding. These efforts were undertaken within the framework of UNESCO’s initiative, Revive the Spirit of Mosul, as part of the project Reviving the Spirit of Mosul by Rebuilding its Historic Landmarks generously funded by the United Arab Emirates.
Aimed at a diverse audience of heritage professionals, policymakers, students, and researchers, the guide features modules on orientation, damage and risk assessment, significance evaluation, recovery planning, and implementation. It incorporates adaptable pedagogical tools, including case studies and field exercises, making it a valuable resource for institutions and individuals.
The guide captures these experiences, offering a universal framework for cultural heritage recovery in conflict zones. By fostering local expertise, community ownership, and resilience, the guide inspires hope for the preservation of cultural heritage worldwide, supporting sustainable recovery and reconciliation efforts, while leveraging it for new opportunities.
The Training Guide for Post-Conflict Heritage Recovery is available for free download here
