UIA Statement on the Attack on Ukraine and the Damage to the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra

The International Union of Architects expresses its profound sorrow following the latest Russian attack on Ukraine, which has caused loss of life and injuries across several cities, including Kyiv and Kharkiv. Our first thoughts are with the victims and their families: no material loss, however significant, can be equated with the value of a human life.

The same attack caused a major fire at the Dormition Cathedral, within the monastic complex of the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra — a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest religious and architectural complexes in Eastern Europe, with over a thousand years of history.

As the world organisation representing the architectural profession, the UIA reaffirms that historic and cultural heritage constitutes the built memory of peoples and a common good of all humanity. Once damaged, it is frequently impossible to restore. The UIA therefore reiterates its call for full respect of the international conventions protecting cultural property in situations of armed conflict.

The UIA extends its solidarity to Ukrainian architects, conservators, and heritage professionals, who continue to work under extraordinarily difficult circumstances to protect, document, and, where possible, restore what the conflict places at risk.

“Built heritage is the memory of peoples, a common good of humanity. Its loss, once it occurs, is frequently irreparable. The UIA will continue to stand alongside Ukrainian architects and heritage professionals in safeguarding that legacy.”

Download the full Press Release here.

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