The World Law Congress, hosted by the World Jurist Association at the New York City Bar Association in conjunction with the United Nations, brought together experts from diverse fields to discuss the crucial role of art and cultural property law in promoting peace and understanding. The panel, “Peace Through Art and Cultural Property Law,” featured prominent figures in the legal, cultural, and diplomatic realms, shedding light on the importance of preserving cultural heritage and fostering international cooperation.
The event was skillfully moderated by Giulia Silvia Ghia, Director of International Friends Verderame and Deputy Mayor of Rome, who led the discussion on the significant intersections of art, cultural heritage, and international relations with the contribution of Raymond Dowd (Partner at Dunnington Bartholow & Miller), Fabio Finotti (Director of the Italian Cultural Institute), Harald Czermak (Partner at WKKlaw), Richard Aronowitz (Global Head of Restitution at Christie’s), Antonella di Campo (Founder and CEO of the Fashion Law Institute Spain, Director of FLIS Magazine), Laura Tedesco (Bureau of South and Central Affairs at the U.S. Department of State), Fabrizio Parrulli (Major General Carabinieri, Military and Police Adviser, Permanent Mission of Italy to the United Nations), Nicola Tegoni (Equity Partner, Co-Chair of the Italy Practice Group at Dunnington, Bartholow & Miller LLP), and Pedro Sandoval (Artist).
Fabio Finotti, Director of the Italian Cultural Institute, emphasized the function of art in cultural diplomacy. He highlighted the significance of recognizing the profound differences in artistic expressions across various cultures and epochs. These differences, Finotti noted, generate a continuous exchange and dialogue between diverse civilizations. Cultural diplomacy, in this context, serves as a powerful tool to enhance mutual understanding between nations, transcending traditional diplomatic expectations.
Moreover, the establishment of the Italian Foreign Office’s Directorate General for Public and Cultural Diplomacy in 2022 has aimed to harness “Italian soft power” as a means of influencing and building global consensus on critical issues. By fostering constant dialogue with media, research centers, universities, and international organizations, Italy strives to promote its cultural richness and welcomes other cultures with open arms.
Another key panelist, Fabrizio Parrulli, Major General Carabinieri and Military and Police Adviser at the Permanent Mission of Italy to the United Nations, underscored Italy’s commitment to the protection of cultural heritage. Italy’s Carabinieri Command for the Protection of Cultural Heritage has been at the forefront of the battle against illegal trafficking, leading to the recovery of numerous works of art and archaeological artifacts.
The “Leonardo” database, comprising over a million images and files on stolen artifacts, has become an invaluable tool for investigation and analysis. Parrulli emphasized that cultural property trafficking is often a transnational crime, necessitating close inter-agency cooperation across borders. In this regard, the Carabinieri TPC sets a model for other countries in engaging international cooperation at various levels. Furthermore, Nicola Tegoni, Equity Partner at Dunnington, Bartholow & Miller LLP, delved into the symbolism of peace in two masterpieces: the Ara Pacis and Guernica. Both works, with their contrasting compositions, carry a powerful message of peace, inspiring freedom, respect for others, adherence to laws, charity, and tolerance.
The panel highlighted the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) as a vital platform embracing cultural diversity and religious pluralism. Education plays a pivotal role in building bridges between communities and promoting cross-cultural dialogue to overcome stereotypes and intolerance. UNESCO, through its cultural conventions, strives to prevent illicit trafficking of cultural goods and strengthen collaboration between nations.
As the discussion progressed, the panelists reiterated the significance of cultural diplomacy and ethical dimensions in cultural preservation. Italy’s continued efforts in supporting the protection of cultural heritage, both within its borders and internationally, were acknowledged. The establishment of the “Group of Friends for the Protection of Cultural Heritage” and Italy’s leadership in counter-terrorism initiatives emphasized the country’s commitment to fostering peace and security. By preserving cultural heritage and promoting ethical practices, nations can work together to create a harmonious world based on collective prosperity and unity.
