Gaza historians awarded UNESCO/Jikji Prize for manuscript preservation

On 4 September 2026, UNESCO Director-General Khaled El-Enany announced that Dr. Abdul Latif Hashim and Haneen Al-Amassi have been awarded the UNESCO/Jikji Memory of the World Prize. This recognition marks the first time individuals have received this prestigious prize since its inception in 2004. The award honors their exceptional efforts to preserve endangered documentary heritage amidst the challenging circumstances in Gaza. Their work has not only safeguarded vital historical manuscripts but has also strengthened local capacity for long-term heritage preservation.

The UNESCO/Jikji Memory of the World Prize aims to celebrate efforts in preserving documentary heritage, which is crucial for maintaining the collective memory of communities. The prize is endowed with $40,000 and recognizes initiatives that enhance accessibility to documentary heritage. The international jury praised Hashim and Al-Amassi for their innovative approach to heritage preservation, which includes both documentation and emergency responses to the ongoing crisis in Gaza.

Dr. Hashim and Al-Amassi have been at the forefront of efforts to protect Gaza's manuscript heritage, focusing on digitization, conservation, and emergency rescue. They have successfully digitized over 25,000 pages of manuscripts from the Mamluk and Ottoman periods, supported by the British Library’s Endangered Archives Programme. Additionally, they established Gaza’s first specialized manuscript restoration laboratory, which is essential for enhancing local preservation capabilities. Their approach combines long-term strategies with immediate responses to safeguard these invaluable resources.

The broader implications of their work extend beyond the manuscripts themselves. By advocating for the preservation of local heritage, Hashim and Al-Amassi are contributing to the cultural resilience of the Palestinian community. Their efforts highlight the importance of documentary heritage as a means of maintaining identity and collective memory, especially in regions affected by conflict. The preservation of these materials ensures that future generations will have access to their rich history.

Moving forward, Hashim and Al-Amassi are committed to implementing an integrated plan for the ongoing rescue, preservation, and documentation of Palestinian heritage. They emphasize the need for continuous support and collaboration to protect endangered documentary materials housed in local institutions and private collections. As they prepare to receive their award on Jikji Day in Cheongju, their dedication serves as an inspiration for similar initiatives worldwide and showcases the significance of preserving cultural heritage even in the face of adversity.