In 2024, Blue Shield is excited to welcome its newest member – the Armenian National Committee of the Blue Shield!
Armenia is celebrated worldwide for its rich cultural heritage – it bears an invaluable record of the development of civilization today. However, this heritage has also been a target throughout Armenian history, exacerbated by armed conflicts. Following the most recent conflicts in Nagorno-Karabakh in 2020 and 2023, where cultural property was once again damaged, international attention to safeguarding the cultural heritage of Armenia became urgent. In 2024, Armenia was delighted to join the Blue Shield network, a milestone supported by local and international actors, to advocate for international humanitarian law and to protect and respect cultural heritage.
As part of the Movement, Blue Shield Armenia’s mission and goals encompass six key areas: proactive protection and risk preparedness, emergency response, stabilization and post-disaster recovery, legal compliance and policy implementation, capacity building through education and training, and coordination with Blue Shield members and partner organizations.
Blue Shield is a pioneering organization that not only raises awareness of threats to cultural heritage in armed conflicts but also develops preservation strategies, trains professionals, and promotes cultural respect. This initiative is crucial for fostering caring and peaceful societies globally, where human lives and cultural creations are protected in recognition of their value to peoples around the world.
Armenia boasts several UNESCO-listed World Heritage sites, such as the Cathedral and Churches of Echmiadzin (IV-Vc.) and the Archaeological Site of Zvartnots (VIIc.), Monasteries of Sanahin and Haghpat (X-XIIIc.), the Geghard Monastery (XIIIc.) and the picturesque Upper Azat Valley. These monuments not only reflect Armenia’s ancient Christian heritage but also symbolize resilience in the face of historical challenges.
Equally significant is Armenia’s intangible cultural heritage, encompassing traditions, rituals, and craftsmanship passed down through generations. This heritage holds special importance for Armenians displaced from Nagorno-Karabakh, as it preserves their cultural identity amidst adversity.
Armenia’s cultural richness extends to the craft traditions of Gyumri, notably the artistry of blacksmiths, recently recognized by UNESCO. The blacksmiths of Gyumri have long been revered for their skilful craftsmanship, producing intricate metalwork that blends artistic expression with functional design. This tradition not only showcases the technical expertise passed down through generations but also embodies the cultural heritage of Gyumri and its resilience in preserving traditional crafts amidst modern challenges. The UNESCO listing highlights the importance of safeguarding these practices, ensuring they continue to thrive and inspire future generations in Armenia and beyond. The UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in Armenia also includes:
- The duduk (traditional wooden flute) and its music (added in 2008);
- The Armenian Art of Khachkars (cross-stones): Symbolism and Craftsmanship (added in 2010);
- A performance of the Armenian epic “David of Sassoun” (added in 2012);
- Lavash – the making and importance of traditional bread as a representation of Armenian culture (added in 2014);
- Kochari Traditional Group Dance (added in 2017);
- Armenian script and its cultural expression (added to the UNESCO list in 2019);
- Pilgrimage to the Monastery of St. Thaddeus the Apostle (added in 2020);
- Tradition of blacksmithing in Gyumri (inscribed in 2023).
Amidst threats from armed conflicts and natural disasters, Blue Shield Armenia plays a pivotal role in safeguarding Armenia’s heritage. This independent, politically neutral organization is dedicated to proactive protection, emergency response, and post-disaster recovery. By collaborating with local, regional, and international partners, Blue Shield Armenia strengthens the preservation of both tangible and intangible cultural heritage. These efforts not only mitigate risks posed by seismic activity and climate change, but also ensure Armenia’s cultural legacy endures for future generations, contributing to global cultural dialogue and understanding. The organization also promotes cultural heritage through contemporary approaches and artistic engagement, aiming to modernize and popularize cultural spaces and traditions.
New Chair of Blue Shield Armenia, Seda Grigoryan, who has been instrumental in founding the Committee, said
Cultural heritage preservation has been a passionate pursuit of mine for many years, encompassing a range of activities from street activism and online petitions to participating in international initiatives. The idea of losing our collective memory and the responsibility to preserve it for future generations drives my efforts. Joining the Blue Shield movement is particularly significant for Armenia, as its rich cultural legacy urgently needs safeguarding, and through Blue Shield, we can ensure that its historical artefacts are protected for future generations. As a documentary filmmaker, my goal is to document and extend the life of our fading shared memories. These memories are the foundation of our identity, as Armenians or any other nation, fostering a self-awareness in a world that embraces diversity. My hope is that we will live in a global society that cherishes all cultures and their heritage.
One of Blue Shield Armenia’s key priorities is enhancing professional skills within the cultural heritage sector through international best practices. To achieve this goal, BSA is collaborating with international partners to establish sustainable courses on emergency response, restoration, and conservation of cultural heritage in Armenia. Of course, the Blue Shield Movement is there to support its Members: coordination is essential. Blue Shield Austria is playing an important role in supporting the Armenian National Committee, fostering cooperation in capacity building in military and civil society.
As a significant step forward, Blue Shield Armenia has secured the Europa Nostra Heritage Hub Small Grant for its project “Guardians of Heritage: Strengthening Armenia’s Cultural Safeguards“. This initiative aims to bolster Armenia’s emergency preparedness by offering training to cultural professionals and volunteers, as well as conducting thorough research of Armenian cultural heritage in the bordering regions of Tavush and Syunik, aiming at empowering participants with essential skills for safeguarding cultural heritage.
Welcome Blue Shield Armenia, Blue Shield's 33rd National Committee.
Find out more about the work of our national committees
