Libyan Update from the VAM: Cultural Heritage Partnership in Libya

Cultural Heritage Partnership in Libya: Prospects in a Time of Conflict and Pandemic

Will Raynolds (ASOR)

ASOR Cultural Heritage Initiatives has been active in Libya since 2017, partnering with the Libyan Department of Antiquities, the Historic Cities Authority, the Boy Scouts and Girl Guides, and the Ghadames Manuscripts Association to document and preserve heritage sites as well as engage Libyan volunteers to protect cultural heritage around the country. With the support of the Libya External Office, the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation and the Whiting Foundation, ASOR has been able to launch a series of projects in Libya intended to enlarge conservation practice and foster a broad, ongoing conversation about cultural protection through our nation-wide network of partner institutions.

Despite ongoing challenges associated with conflict and the fallout of the global pandemic, these projects have managed to adapt to evolving circumstances and remain active. This speaks to the ingenuity and dedication of Libyan stakeholders around the country as well as the deep connection that many Libyans already have for these resources. This paper will discuss progress to date and reflect on ways in which this momentum can be sustained during this turbulent period..