with Irina Bokova | Hosted by Deborah Lehr

March 31, 2025
Understanding the Thriving Trade in Looted Antiquities, Episode #1

Welcome to Tholos Talks, a series following the spirit of the tholos circle, where Ancient Greek intellectuals gathered to debate the issues of the day. In our premiere episode, Deborah Lehr, Basilinna CEO, and founder of the Antiquities Coalition, sits down with Ambassador Irina Bokova to kick off our series on culture and discuss a fundamental question: What is the role of culture, and does it matter? The pair delve into the significance of cultural heritage, its impact on identity and community, and why preserving it is crucial for future generations. From the role of preservation in societal development to actionable steps individuals can take to protect cultural heritage, this episode is filled with valuable insights to illuminate our next steps forward.

Listen on: YouTube, Spotify, and SoundCloud.

Discover more insights by the Basilinna team: www.basilinna.com/insights

This episode is brought to you by the Basilinna Institute.

About Our Guest

Ambassador Irina Bokova is an Executive Director at Basilinna. Irina has dedicated her career to public service. In 2009, Irina made history by becoming the first woman and the first Eastern European to be elected Director-General of UNESCO—the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization— a position she held until 2017. Irina Bokova has left an indelible mark on the global stage. During her tenure she emerged as a powerful advocate for cultural preservation, navigating some of the most challenging times for heritage and humanity alike. Under her leadership, UNESCO responded to the cultural devastation wrought by the rise of ISIS, which led to an unprecedented scale of destruction not seen since World War II. Irina Bokova spearheaded the groundbreaking 'Unite for Heritage' campaign, galvanizing international efforts to protect cultural sites and treasures under threat. Her work raised critical awareness about the links between the trafficking of antiquities and the financing of terrorism, underscoring the vital role cultural heritage plays not only in our shared history but also in global security and identity. Read the full bio here.

About Our Host

Deborah Lehr is the CEO of Basilinna, a strategic advisory firm, and founder and Chair of the Antiquities Coalition. She has spoken globally on issues related to cultural heritage. Previously...read the full bio here.

About the Show

Tholos Talks, a series following the spirit of the tholos circle, where Ancient Greek intellectuals gathered to debate the issues of the day. Through deep insight and thought-provoking dialogue, we offer the tools to decode complexity and illuminate the path forward.

Tholos Talks is a Basilinna Institute produced podcast.

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