AICA Italy, the official national section of the International Association of Art Critics, which brings together scholars, curators, and professionals in art criticism, deems it necessary to express a clear position regarding the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip.
We cannot remain silent in the face of a humanitarian crisis of dramatic proportions, which has caused a high number of civilian casualties, including an unacceptable number of minors, and a material and moral devastation that will leave deep scars on society and the collective conscience.
We strongly condemn all forms of violence, every act of war and aggression, every strategy of annihilation of the other, and every violation of fundamental human rights.
We believe that the deliberate suppression of human lives constitutes a severe violation of international law and the fundamental principles of humanity.
As art critics, we believe that cultural institutions cannot remain neutral in the face of the destruction of innocence, the denial of dignity, and the systematic elimination of every possibility for dialogue.
We reaffirm the indispensable value of peace, respect for human life, and the protection of universal rights.
We strongly demand:
An immediate ceasefire,
Guaranteed access to humanitarian aid,
A concrete commitment from the international community to uphold the law and reconstruct conditions for minimal justice.
Fully aware that words alone cannot end conflicts, we believe that the moral responsibility of the cultural world is not to turn a blind eye, and to testify, with clarity and courage, to what violates the values on which every civil coexistence is based.
President of AICA Italy
Prof. Gabriele Romeo
Turin, August 2, 2025
