Baghdad: The Ministry of Culture is hosting a workshop on “Underwater Cultural Heritage” to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the 2001 UNESCO Convention on the Protection of the Underwater Cultural Heritage. The event is organized by the Department of Archaeological Studies, Research, and Training at the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Antiquities and takes place in the Donny George Hall at the Ministry’s headquarters.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the workshop is supervised by Qasim Taher Al-Sudani, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Antiquities for Arts Affairs, and attended by Lama Yass Al-Douri, Director General of the Department of Public Museums. The event draws participation from several archaeologists, specialists, and cultural heritage enthusiasts.

Ahmed Hashim, Director of the Studies Department at the Department of Archaeological Studies, Research, and Training, presented a lecture outlining the Convention on the Protection of the Underwater Cultural Heritage and detailing the involvement of 81 countries that have ratified it. He also discussed Iraq’s participation in the Convention under Law No. 20 of 2016.

The workshop explores the concept of underwater cultural heritage, its significance, and the need for its preservation and protection. Discussions include ancient navigation techniques and safeguarding this heritage from theft and vandalism to maintain its historical and cultural value. The cultural importance of underwater heritage is a central theme in the discussions.

Participants also delve into the processes involved in underwater archaeological excavations, the expertise required, and the importance of advanced equipment for documentation and excavation. The workshop emphasizes modern scientific methods in preserving underwater sites.

At the workshop’s conclusion, the Undersecretary highlighted the need for a larger event to include additional bodies, share expertise, develop new ideas, and create specialized scientific studies. These efforts aim to rescue and preserve Iraqi underwater antiquities, ensuring their protection for future generations.

Active participation from attendees in discussions and interventions emphasized the importance of enhancing technical and scientific skills in underwater archaeology. Strengthening coordination among institutions is seen as crucial in advancing the protection of this vital cultural heritage.