The Nordic World Heritage Association condemns the attack of the World Heritage Site Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra in Kyiv

In the context of the escalation of the war in Ukraine following the invasion by the Russian Federation, UNESCO condemns the reported strike on 15 June that hit the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, within the World Heritage property “Kyiv: Saint-Sophia Cathedral and Related Monastic Buildings, Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra”, one of Ukraine’s most significant spiritual and cultural landmarks. The strike reportedly caused significant damage to the exterior and interior of the Dormition Cathedral. Adjacent historic structures, including elements of the Lavra’s fortification complex and Ivan Kushnik Tower, were also reportedly impacted.

The Nordic World Heritage Association condemns the attack of the Dormition Cathedral, a part of the World Heritage Site Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra in Kyiv.

Destroying a World Heritage Site as part of an act of war is directly against the World Heritage Convention, which was created to strengthen and build peace among the nations of the World through a shared responsibility for the world's most significant cultural and natural heritage. Signing the World Heritage Convention is in fact a signature for the preservation of peace.

The Nordic World Heritage Association fully supports UNESCO's condemnation of the attack as well as all other attacks on World Heritage Sites around the world. Damages to such institutions deprives communities of access to culture, education, nature and shared spaces that are essential for recovery and social cohesion.

The Nordic World Heritage Association represents all 45 World Heritage sites in the Nordic countries.

World Heritage Site Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra in Kyiv, image Kwitowski