WAC Urges Immediate Action on Gaza’s Cultural Heritage Crisis: An Urgent Statement

The World Archaeological Congress (WAC) is stepping up to address the urgent humanitarian and cultural crisis in Gaza. This esteemed international organization, dedicated to human rights and the safeguarding of cultural heritage, has recently made headlines with a compelling statement released after an Extraordinary Council Meeting on April 30, 2025.

In their statement, WAC expressed grave concern over the escalating violence and the deliberate destruction of cultural heritage sites in Gaza. The President of WAC, Koji Mizoguchi, articulated the organization’s position, emphasizing the ethical responsibilities of archaeologists and the need for immediate action. He stated, “In line with our mission and ethical commitments, we reaffirm our condemnation of all forms of violence against civilians and cultural heritage. We call on all parties to cease hostilities immediately and uphold international humanitarian law.”

The Congress’s appeal was particularly directed towards the Government of Israel, urging a halt to any actions that could be interpreted as genocide, crimes against humanity, or collective punishment of Palestinian civilians. WAC strongly condemned the systematic destruction of Palestinian cultural heritage, highlighting that it represents not only the history and identity of the Palestinian people but also a vital part of the shared heritage of humanity.

WAC’s statement underscores the importance of cultural heritage, asserting that it is not merely a secondary concern during conflicts but a fundamental aspect of human dignity and community resilience. They noted, “As we stated in 2023, the value of human life and the principle of universal human rights must take precedence over all other concerns. At the same time, we affirm that cultural heritage is integral to human dignity and community resilience, and its preservation is a basic human right.”

The organization expressed its commitment to closely monitor the situation in Gaza. WAC aims to raise awareness within the global archaeological community and beyond, while taking actions aligned with its long-standing mission to protect individuals and their cultural heritage, both in times of peace and conflict.

With a membership spanning over 90 countries, the World Archaeological Congress is recognized as the only fully international and representative organization of practicing archaeologists. The scope of WAC’s work encompasses:

• Promoting professional training in disadvantaged communities.
• Empowering Indigenous and minority groups.
• Advocating for the conservation of archaeological sites that are at risk due to conflict, looting, and development.

WAC’s ongoing initiatives highlight the integral role that cultural heritage plays in our collective human experience. By focusing on the preservation of archaeological sites, WAC not only safeguards history but also supports the communities that rely on these sites for their identity and continuity.

As the conflict in Gaza continues to unfold, the World Archaeological Congress remains resolute in its commitment to advocating for peace and the protection of cultural heritage across the globe. The organization’s efforts serve as a reminder that the preservation of history is crucial, especially in the face of adversity.

In conclusion, the World Archaeological Congress’s statement is a clarion call for action amidst a humanitarian crisis. Their commitment to uphold human rights and protect cultural heritage is vital not only for the people of Gaza but for the global community as a whole. As they navigate these challenging times, WAC’s dedication to cultural heritage preservation will be pivotal in fostering resilience and hope in affected communities.