Preserving Cultural Heritage: A Project for Iraq

March 11 - 13, 2015

About Iraq

The story of civilization in Iraq spans some 10,000 years offering countless cultural artifacts. However, continuous conflict is degrading Iraq of both its future and its past by stripping the country of its cultural heritage [2]. The Iraqi government is working towards a solid strategy to preserve and protect important historical sites including the former Assyrian capital Samarra, the Erbil citadel, and the city of Hatra [2]. The Iraqi Institute for the Conservation of Antiquities and Heritage is an initiative that trains professionals to conserve and promote the conservationist movements [1]. Several local initiatives have also been established to halt the damage and educate others on the importance of their heritage. Initiatives, in conjunction with the government plan to develop a long term plan to preserve their cultural property.

About the Program

The IVLP is a professional exchange program that seeks to build mutual understanding between the U.S. and other nations through carefully designed short-term visits to the U.S. for current and emerging foreign leaders. Over the last 70 years, the IVLP has developed into the premier professional exchange program in the U.S. and brings over 200 emerging leaders to Jacksonville every year.

[1] http://www.mei.edu/content/article/saving-iraq-s-cultural-heritage#_ftn1

[2] https://www.historians.org/publications-and-directories/perspectives-on-history/september-2003/iraqs-lost-cultural-heritage