The protection of cultural heritage through international relations : a Maltese perspective

Abstract

The thesis is about the protection of cultural heritage through international relations from a Maltese perspective. The first two chapters are concerned with a general viewpoint of cultural heritage; definition of the term, the reasons why protecting cultural heritage is so important, and the international laws that deal with cultural heritage. The second chapter includes also the theory of international institutions, and the importance of the work that international institutions, such as UNSECO and ICOMOS, do in this field. Following, there is a general study on Malta; the laws on cultural heritage as well as the many institutions and agencies that are involved in the field. Subsequently there is an analysis on whether Maltese institutions that deal with cultural heritage have contacts with international agencies in order to gain funds and any other kind of help to sustain the national heritage. This analysis was carried out through interviews and questionnaires. The purpose of this study is to underline how important it is to protect the cultural heritage. Throughout the past century a lot of harm was done to artefacts, buildings, paintings and any other thing that can be describe as heritage in all parts of the world. This led to the set up of institutions such as UNESCO, ICOMOS, ICOM and others, as well a whole number of international laws, whose purpose was to protect that heritage for future generations. Although Malta is a very small island, it is immensely rich in cultural heritage due to its long history dating back 7000 years. However, this fact poses a serious problem; there are too many things to preserve and protect, but very little funds and experts to do the job. This therefore shows how important it is to get help outside its shores. The more the national agencies learn how to get help in terms of funds as well as expertise from international organisation, and also promote Maltese heritage abroad, the better chances they get to safeguard the national heritage for the generations to come.