The Old Bridge of Mostar and Increasing Respect for Cultural Property in Armed Conflict

This study reveals that the deliberate destruction of the Old Bridge of Mostar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and symbol of exceptional historical and architectural significance, constituted a violation of international humanitarian law (IHL) and amounts to a war crime. Despite its lack of military significance at the time of destruction, the bridge was protected under IHL, yet its targeting remains emblematic of broader impunity for cultural property-related crimes during armed conflicts. The research evaluates the adequacy of existing legal frameworks and enforcement mechanisms by analyzing the incident through normative and jurisprudential lenses, including ICTY precedents. While progress has been made in addressing such crimes, gaps persist at both normative and enforcement levels, underscoring the need for clearer legal prohibitions and stronger implementation to ensure respect for cultural heritage in conflict zones.

Petrovic, J. (2013). The Old Bridge of Mostar and Increasing Respect for Cultural Property in Armed Conflict. https://doi.org/10.1163/9789004235540