Fondazione Santagata has been entrusted with the final evaluation of the project “Fighting against the Illicit Trafficking of Cultural Property in the Western Balkans”, implemented by UNESCO and funded by the European Commission (DG NEAR/DG EAC). The evaluation aims to assess the project’s effectiveness and impact, identify key lessons learned, and provide recommendations for future strategies.

Context

The Western Balkans Region faces significant challenges related to the illicit trafficking of cultural property, which threatens both cultural heritage and regional stability. Strengthening institutional coordination, aligning legal frameworks with EU standards, and enhancing cross-border collaboration are essential to effectively addressing this issue.

To support these efforts, UNESCO, through its Regional Bureau for Science and Culture in Europe (Venice) and its Antenna in Sarajevo, has led the implementation of this project. The initiative aims to foster reconciliation and regional cooperation, reinforcing the protection of cultural heritage and raising awareness about the risks of illicit trafficking.

Objectives

The evaluation of the project will focus on:

  • Assessing the effectiveness and efficiency of project implementation.
  • Identifying gaps, challenges, and lessons learned to inform future strategies.
  • Evaluating the sustainability and long-term impact of the project’s interventions.
  • Analysing the project’s alignment with stakeholders’ needs, including cultural heritage professionals, judiciaries, customs officers, and law enforcement.
  • Examining the project’s synergy with other regional initiatives and policies.

Expected results

The evaluation will contribute to:

  • A comprehensive understanding of the project’s achievements and challenges.
  • Strengthened strategies for cultural heritage protection in the Western Balkans.
  • Policy recommendations to enhance regional cooperation and alignment with EU standards.
  • Improved capacity-building approaches for institutions and professionals working to prevent illicit trafficking.

Commissioned by

UNESCO