The Dilemma of Urban Heritage Conservation in Post-Conflict Bamiyan: A Critical Analysis of Causes, Failures, Consequences and Prospects

Heritage conservation efforts in the post-conflict Bamiyan Valley, Afghanistan, have faced significant challenges despite international support. A critical analysis of 15 conservation projects (2001–2021) reveals that failures stem primarily from security issues, technical limitations, socio-cultural barriers, environmental factors, and administrative-financial mismanagement. The study highlights the impact of political instability on conservation outcomes and proposes five key strategies for improvement: comprehensive assessments, inclusive stakeholder engagement, context-sensitive integration, sustained support, and adaptive monitoring. These insights provide actionable guidance for policymakers and practitioners in similar post-conflict contexts.

Abouei, R., & Tavasoli, M. (2024). The Dilemma of Urban Heritage Conservation in Post-Conflict Bamiyan: A Critical Analysis of Causes, Failures, Consequences and Prospects. The Historic Environment: Policy & Practice, 15(4), 517–539. https://doi.org/10.1080/17567505.2024.2438406