This article examines and analyzes the issue of the essence of the institution of protection of cultural values in international law in the aspect of armed conflicts. It is said that the situation with cultural heritage in the 21st century is extremely difficult due to the spread of armed conflicts and wars, which forces scientists from all over the world, as well as Ukrainian researchers, to regularly study this problem and find out new and relevant aspects based on the latest events in the country .
 It is emphasized that the full-scale invasion of Russian troops into Ukraine, which took place on February 24, 2022, can also be considered a war against culture, since the occupiers pay special attention to the cultural heritage of Ukraine. It is noted that one of the most important international treaties regulating the protection of cultural values in the event of an armed conflict is the Hague Convention of 1954.
 In conclusion, it is stated that the protection of cultural heritage during armed conflicts is becoming more and more relevant and important in our time, and this is confirmed by recent events. This mission is contemporary and supported by moral, strategic and legal imperatives. Modern theory and practice agree that the international community has a fundamental interest in the protection of cultural heritage, which must be guaranteed by all means, even in times of war.
 For this, it is important to use the most significant doctrines of international law and universalize the norms of customary law, which prohibit attacks and destruction of cultural values, and include them in the body of the main international legal documents. These norms establish erga omnes obligations, which equalize all members of the international community in their rights and responsibilities.