Freedom of Religion or Belief and Cultural Heritage Protection: Synergistic not Competitive

Abstract

Unrealized synergies exist between freedom of religion or belief (FoRB) and cultural heritage protection (CHP), as these two related but rarely interacting fields of interest present novel opportunities for joint efforts on common concerns. New pathways to protect heritage and ensure worship rights can bring together international standards on CHP and FoRB with the praxis of individuals using historical sites with religious significance.

Keywords:

• freedom of religion or belief
• cultural heritage preservation
• UNESCO
• pluralism

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Knox Thames

Knox Thames is a Visiting Senior Expert at the U.S. Institute of Peace and a Senior Fellow at the Institute for Global Engagement. Previously a civil servant for 20 years, he most recently served in the Obama and Trump administrations at the U.S. Department of State in a special envoy role focused on religious minorities in the Middle East and South / Central Asia.

Emily Scolaro

Emily Scolaro is a Research Analyst on the Religion and Inclusive Societies team at the U.S. Institute of Peace. She holds an MSc in Social Anthropology and has a background in cultural heritage preservation and international development. She is an incoming doctoral student in Sociocultural Anthropology whose research focuses on the illicit antiquities trade and Southeast Asia.