Egypt

As President Hosni Mubarak announces that he will not stand for re-election in September, perhaps the unrest in Egypt will begin to abate. With regard to the wealth of cultural heritage in Egypt, UNESCO has released this timely statement,

UNESCO Director General, 1st February 2011

and from Ismail Serageldin, Librarian of Alexandria and Director of the Bibliotheca Alexandrina,

"The world has witnessed an unprecedented popular action in the streets of Egypt. Led by Egypt’s youth, with their justified demands for more freedom, more democracy, lower prices for necessities and more employment opportunities. These youths demanded immediate and far-reaching changes. This was met by violent conflicts with the police, who were routed. The army was called in and was welcomed by the demonstrators, but initially their presence was more symbolic than active. Events deteriorated as lawless bands of thugs, and maybe agents provocateurs, appeared and looting began. The young people organized themselves into groups that directed traffic, protected neighborhoods and guarded public buildings of value such as the Egyptian Museum and the Library of Alexandria. They are collaborating with the army. This makeshift arrangement is in place until full public order returns."

As friends and colleagues find safety, no doubt the full extent to which Egypt's collections and heritage projects have been affected will only become clear with the passing of weeks and months. So for now let's hope that the treasures which we all value so highly have remained secure, and that the Egyptian people soon find peace and the democracy for which they have waited so long.

Further updates 3/1/11

Egyptian Museums looted, but the public strikes back