How does IHL define a civilian, a cultural or a religious object? How are they protected in armed conflict? Is the protection of such objects absolute under IHL? What measures can be taken to prevent and repress attacks on such objects?
For an overview on how the protection of civilian objects and cultural property is regulated by IHL, read the related chapter on the Conduct of Hostilities.
You can also explore how IHL protects cultural objects against the effects of war in 2 new practical case studies:
Other relevant cases on the matter:
The concepts of “Civilian objects”, “Protected objects” and “Cultural property” are elaborated upon in the “A to Z” section.
For further insights on the topic, consult also the ICRC Factsheet on the 1954 Convention on the protection of cultural property, the related issue of the International Review of the Red Cross and the model law concerning the Protection of cultural property in the event of armed conflict.