The Protection of Cultural Artefacts in War (13-14 June 2016)

Derek Matravers (here at the Open University) and Helen Frowe (Director of the Stockholm Centre for the Ethics of War and Peace) are organizing a joint conference on this topic in Stockholm. Here is the call for papers and a link:

The Protection of Cultural Artefacts in War
Stockholm Centre for the Ethics of War and Peace and the Open University
Langholmen Hotel, Stockholm, 13 – 14 June, 2016

The recent and ongoing conflicts in the Middle East – most notably in Syria and Iraq, but also elsewhere – have wreaked havoc on some of the world’s most important cultural sites and artefacts. This workshop aims to shed light on three central questions. First, why does cultural heritage matter? Second, how ought military forces to weigh the value of cultural sites and objects in their strategic deliberations? Third, is it permissible to use military force specifically to protect aspects of cultural heritage? In particular, is it permissible to defend these goods at the risk of endangering soldiers’ lives, and – given our limited resources – at the risk of failing to protect lives?

This workshop will bring together philosophers, archaeologists, and international lawyers in an attempt to answer these and other questions. It is the first of a series of events aimed at developing robust theoretical accounts of cultural heritage within the context of the ethics of war. Subsequent events will directly engage with NGOs, military practitioners, and policymakers. We invite the submission of papers of no more than 7000 words, suitable for delivery in no more than 45 minutes. Attendance at the conference is free, including meals, but please note that the authors of submitted papers are responsible for their own travel and accommodation. Papers should be submitted to stockholmcentre@gmail.com no later than Friday the 8th of April. More information is available on SCEWP’s website here.

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