Minister of Culture Š. Birutis in Helsinki: concerted action of countries of the region important for strengthening heritage protection
The protection of cultural heritage in times of crises and armed conflicts, the sharing of national experiences, support for Ukraine and the need for closer regional cooperation were the main topics discussed at the meeting of the ministers of culture of the Nordic and Baltic countries and Ukraine held in Helsinki.
"Lithuania considers the protection of cultural heritage to be an integral part of national security. While we have established a national and institutional preparedness framework, we are aware that today's threats, especially in the light of Ukraine's experience, require even closer international cooperation and clearer coordination in the Nordic-Baltic region. By sharing experiences and strengthening inter-institutional cooperation, we can prepare more effectively for the challenges of the future," Minister of Culture Šarūnas Birutis said at the meeting.
In his presentation, Minister Birutis outlined Lithuania’s preparedness system, including the National Heritage Protection Programme and its implementation plan, the inventory of heritage sites, the Blue Shield marking of sites, emergency management plans in memory institutions, the integration of heritage sites into the national defence system, and training of specialists. The Minister stressed the importance of smooth inter-institutional and international cooperation, as well as the need for long-term preservation of digital cultural content and support to Ukraine.
The ministerial meeting, organised on the initiative of the Finnish Presidency of the Nordic Council of Ministers and the Åland Islands, continued the dialogue on strengthening the protection of cultural heritage in the region, launched in Sweden in 2024. Last year's Stockholm Declaration stressed the need for more intensive action planning to protect heritage and maintain cultural activities in the event of crisis or war, to support Ukraine and to exchange best practices.
At the meeting in Helsinki, ministers shared experiences of their countries. Mykola Tochytskyj, Minister of Culture and Strategic Communication of Ukraine, presented the situation in his country and the challenges of protecting heritage in the face of war.
The ministers discussed the priorities for heritage protection and the links with national defence. They agreed to continue the dialogue and exchange of experiences to strengthen the region's preparedness to respond to crises. Further discussions at the Nordic Council of Ministers are planned to continue under the Danish Presidency in 2026.
During his visit to Helsinki, Minister of Culture Š. Birutis also visited the Nordic Culture Point, the modern, multifunctional Oodi Helsinki Central Library, and the Kohta Centre for Contemporary Art, which is managed by Anders Kreuger, the Friend of Culture of Lithuania, and is currently hosting an exhibition by Lithuanian artist Anastasia Sosunova.
Photo by organisers
Last updated: 10-06-2025
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