The Risks to Cultural Heritage in Western and Central Asia

Abstract

Today the cultural heritage of humankind is endangered not only by natural catastrophes and the exploitation of resources but also by economic and social problems and institutional weaknesses. Western and Central Asian countries contain a major part of the cultural heritage on the earth, but due to different problems common in developing countries, cultural heritage in such countries suffers from natural and non-natural risks. A lack of public awareness of various types of risks itself worsens the conditions in such countries. It is necessary to clarify the situation within the region regarding different categories of risk, and then considering how to devise measures for heritage sites that are truly endangered at present, as well as how to prepare for risk anticipated in the future.This paper discusses and categorises the risks to cultural heritage in Western and Central Asia.