Loss and Rebuilding of Historical Sites in Ukraine After the War with Russia in the Context of Balkan Experiences

The article examines the loss and potential restoration of Ukrainian cultural heritage following the 2022 war, drawing parallels with the reconstruction of cultural heritage in the Balkans in the aftermath of the Balkan wars. A considerable amount of damage has been inflicted upon Ukrainian historical sites, including churches, theatres and museums, which has had a detrimental impact upon the nation’s cultural identity. The authors analyse the historical preservation of cultural heritage in accordance with the 1954 Hague Convention, discussing how Ukraine’s efforts align with international heritage protection protocols. The experiences of Croatia and Bosnia, which undertook post-conflict cultural restoration in the 1990s, offer strategic insights for Ukraine. The article suggests that Ukraine can benefit from international guidance, like the Warsaw Recommendations, to reconstruct heritage sites. This framework emphasises not only restoring physical structures but also cultural memory and communal spaces. The authors conclude that while rebuilding will be challenging and resource-intensive, past European efforts provide valuable templates that could help preserve Ukraine’s cultural legacy amidst ongoing conflict.