Dr Isber Sabrine

Project Collaborator 

What do you do?

I am a Syrian archaeologist specialising in cultural heritage management during conflicts. Since 2011, I have led projects focused on protecting cultural heritage in conflict zones. I am the chair and co-founder of the NGO Heritage for Peace, and since 2013, I have spearheaded cultural initiatives in various conflict-affected countries. I also founded and direct the Arab Network of Civil Society Organizations to Safeguard Cultural Heritage (ANSCH).

How are you involved in this area of science? 

For almost two years, I have been collaborating with EAMENA to support their implementation of training and workshops with Syrians. Over these two years, 30 Syrians from across the country have participated in EAMENA training. This was the first training to bring together Syrians from all regions, despite the complexities of the political situation in Syria.

The EAMENA training provided participants with the necessary equipment and techniques to document numerous threatened archaeological sites throughout Syria. Now, the trained young Syrians are preparing their proposals for future heritage protection projects with the support of the EAMENA team.

EAMENA's work in Syria has demonstrated how Durham University can significantly impact local communities and civil societies in areas with non-state actors. The efforts of EAMENA have contributed to the protection of cultural heritage in Syria and have created a capable young team poised to carry out future heritage projects.  

What do you love about this topic?

I love this topic because it marks the first time that many young Syrians from all regions have participated together in training, despite the political challenges. These Syrians had the chance to travel outside Syria for the first time, which gave them motivation and showed them that others care about their efforts.

How does this work deliver real-world impact?

The young Syrians are aware of the importance of EAMENA training and are eager to apply it to their future projects. EAMENA training is also a solidarity initiative; the EAMENA team is always available to support and assist the Syrians with any questions or queries. 

EAMENA’s work delivers real-world impact through several key areas: 

1. Capacity Building: EAMENA provides essential training and resources to local archaeologists, heritage professionals, and volunteers. This empowers them with the skills and knowledge needed to document, protect, and preserve endangered cultural heritage sites.  
2. Technological Advancements: By leveraging advanced technologies such as satellite imagery, GIS (Geographic Information Systems), and digital documentation techniques, EAMENA equips local stakeholders with modern tools to monitor and assess heritage sites.  
3. International Collaboration: EAMENA fosters collaboration between local communities, international experts, and academic institutions. This collaborative approach not only enhances the capacity of local heritage professionals but also creates a network of support and solidarity
4. Raising Awareness: EAMENA's efforts raise global awareness about the threats to cultural heritage in conflict and post-conflict regions.
5. Contribute to the sustainable development of local communities: By empowering local stakeholders to manage and protect their heritage, EAMENA helps to foster a sense of ownership and pride, which can translate into long-term community engagement and economic opportunities, such as tourism and cultural projects.