Dimensions of Cultural Security - Perception

Cultural identity plays a role in how individuals perceive themselves and provides a sense of belonging to a community. Self-perception and a sense of belonging provide a perspective from which to consider external influences. In effect, a cultural identity offers a defense against potentially damaging extremist ideologies.

Artworks and historic structures serve as a medium for discussing cultural identity in the present and passing cultural heritage between generations. Museums not only create a structure for the communication medium but also can represent the resilience of cultural identity.

The image shows the National Museum of Afghanistan in Kabul, which suffered looting during the succession of conflicts in the the 1970s, 80s, and 90s. International initiatives to recover the lost objects illustrate the potential role of artworks in garnering cooperation in the interest of securing cultural identity.

Learn about the framework for Cultural Intelligence.