Ukraine' cultural sector requires $10.5B for recovery – UNESCO

Chiara Dezzi Bardeschi, Head of the UNESCO Desk in Ukraine, stated this at the "Restoring Ukraine's Cultural Sector" coordination meeting organized by the Office for Recovery Support under the Ministry of Culture and Strategic Communications, according to an Ukrinform correspondent.

Bardeschi said this estimated amount is essential for reconstruction efforts until 2035. She emphasized that while the figure might seem daunting, it should not diminish hope. Instead, she noted that having clear numbers allows for structured planning and a long-term perspective.

Bardeschi also stressed that the total damage to Ukraine's cultural sector is estimated to be worth $4.11 billion, representing only direct losses. Meanwhile, broader economic losses -- including declines in tourism revenue, creative industries, and cultural education -- amount to $29.3 billion. She pointed out that this updated assessment is nearly 18% higher than the previous one made a year ago.

Since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion, 1,390 cultural heritage sites and 2,205 cultural infrastructure facilities in Ukraine have been destroyed or damaged.