The Qatar National Library (QNL) has launched the 4th edition of the Doha Conference on Combating the Illicit Trafficking of Cultural Property, convening international experts, policymakers, and government officials to enhance institutional readiness and strengthen global co-operation in safeguarding cultural heritage during times of crisis.
Held under the theme of *Crisis Preparedness and Cultural Heritage Protection: from Prevention to Recovery, the conference is part of the QNL’s Himaya programme, which focuses on protecting cultural heritage in the Mena (Middle East and North Africa) region and organised in collaboration with Unesco’s Regional Office for the Gulf States and Yemen, along with the embassies of the US, France, and Italy in Doha.
The opening day featured discussions on the intersection of heritage protection and crisis response, with panels addressing the illicit antiquities trade in the Middle East, institutional responsibilities under the International Council of Museums Code of Ethics, the UNIDROIT Convention, and the role of cultural heritage in promoting political stability.
“The Fourth Doha Conference on Combating the Illicit Trafficking of Cultural Property is not merely a platform for dialogue; it is a call to intensify regional and international co-operation, to unite the efforts of institutions and global partners, and to activate practical programmes such as Himaya, launched by the Library to fight the illicit trade in cultural heritage and to build the capacity of institutions in confronting the challenges that threaten the identity and collective memory of nations,” said HE the Minister of State and QNL President Dr Hamad bin Abdulaziz al-Kawari.
“Today’s conference is about taking collective action to protect our cultural heritage,” said QNL executive director Tan Huism. “Together, we are establishing a path toward more resilient and better-prepared institutions capable of confronting crises.”
“The QNL is committed to its mission to safeguard cultural heritage for future generations,” she continued. “Effective protection demands a comprehensive approach that integrates proactive planning, legal and policy alignment, and crisis preparedness.”
“We will continue to work collaboratively to ensure that libraries, museums, and cultural institutions have the expertise and resources needed to respond swiftly and effectively in times of crisis,” Tan said.
