Pride & Future- Cultural Heritage In Afghanistan

NYUAD Institute

With the return of the Taliban to power in Afghanistan, many may remember the destruction of the Bamiyan Buddhas in 2001. Since then, Afghans in the culture sector have established many cultural heritage development initiatives, which highlight the country’s diverse regional identities. Although heritage might not seem to be the highest priority during times of uncertainty, in the past 20 years it has proven to be a basic need and an effective tool for peace and development. This conversation reflects on Afghanistan’s diverse heritage and discusses a path into the future. Speaker Omar Sultan, Former Deputy Minister of Culture in Afghanistan In conversation with Robert Parthesius, Director of Dhakira Center for Heritage Studies; Associate Professor of Heritage Studies, NYUAD