UNESCO and the question of the restitution of cultural property

The session on ‘Looted art: taking African cultural heritage restitution forward’ that took place during the second edition of the Paris Peace Forum, came at a critical moment, because it highlighted how the restitution of works of art can promote new, stronger relationships between countries. It also echoed the mission of UNESCO – to promote peace and development through culture, education, science and communication – which is unique in the UN system.

Cultural property must be safeguarded, as it embodies the identity and diversity of the peoples of the world. However, due to vicissitudes of history, many African countries have seen their cultural property seized and scattered across the globe. The loss of this heritage has left deep wounds and represents a potential loss of historic memory for future generations.

In recent years, the countries that are in possession of these “ill acquired cultural properties” have faced an increasing number of requests for their return. As a result, new initiatives and cooperation efforts have emerged to respond to this important question. UNESCO believes that these requests must be listened to carefully, particularly as the debate has now reached the public sphere.

The question of the restitution of cultural property is important for UNESCO, and the Organization always had a clear position on it.

As early as 1978, Mr. Amadou Mahtar M’Bow, former Director-General of UNESCO, launched an appeal “for the restitution of an irreplaceable cultural heritage to those who created it”. This pioneering document states that loss of heritage represents, for dispossessed countries, a loss of memory knowledge. The appeal calls for international cooperation and dialogue on this subject, particularly regarding issues of ethics, sharing, and return.

Cultural property must be safeguarded, as it embodies the identity and diversity of the peoples of…