Heritage Diplomacy as a Tool for Protecting Cultural Heritage

Heritage diplomacy is a relatively new field that links heritage studies with international relations studies. It plays a pivotal role in strengthening and enhancing political, economic, and cultural relations among countries around the world. In light of the increasing and growing proportion of conflicts and armed conflicts around the world, it has become important to find space to talk about the common heritage of mankind, away from the memory of previous colonialism and current geopolitical interests. Since, heritage is considered as the cumulative memory of humanity, which reflects the identities and values ​​of societies, many experts believe that heritage diplomacy has the ability to build international relations depending on the dialogue between different cultures; in order to achieve mutual understanding through collective action and mutual benefits among all parties to achieve international peace and security. Hence, diplomacy becomes an integral part of the formation of heritage, especially in areas that have suffered from violence or political upheaval, whether in the past or present. Therefore, this paper discusses the main question: “How is Heritage diplomacy used as a tool for protecting cultural heritage?”. Firstly, by determining the concept of heritage Diplomacy.Secondly, by studying the challenges that face the heritage Diplomacy. Thirdly, by presenting a number of previous international experiences that used heritage diplomacy to protect cultural heritage around world. Finally, by studying the future of protecting heritage sites in the light of diplomacy as one of soft power tools.