The UNESCO cultural conventions that ratified discuss restitution. Restitution refers to the act of returning cultural artifacts or treasures that were taken or acquired unlawfully or unethically, often during colonial periods.
There are several UNESCO cultural conventions that address restitution:
1. The UNESCO Convention on the Means of Prohibiting and Preventing the Illicit Import, Export, and Transfer of Ownership of Cultural Property (1970) aims to prevent the illegal trade of cultural property. It encourages member states to take measures to identify and recover stolen or illegally exported cultural objects and return them to their countries of origin.
2. The UNESCO Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage (1972) establishes a framework for the identification, protection, and preservation of cultural and natural heritage sites. It encourages states to cooperate in the identification and restitution of cultural property that has been illegally exported.
3. The UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (2003) focuses on protecting intangible cultural heritage, such as traditions, rituals, and oral expressions. While it doesn't explicitly mention restitution, it emphasizes the importance of respecting the rights of communities and individuals associated with the intangible cultural heritage.
Restitution is a complex issue with various considerations, including legal, ethical, and historical factors. It involves discussions and negotiations between countries, museums, and other stakeholders. Some argue that restitution promotes justice and restores cultural identity, while others raise concerns about the feasibility and potential loss of access to cultural artifacts.
An example of restitution is the return of the Benin Bronzes by Western museums to Nigeria. These bronze sculptures were looted during the Benin Punitive Expedition of 1897. In recent years, there have been calls for their return to Nigeria, and some museums have started the process of repatriation.
It's important to note that restitution is an ongoing and evolving topic, and the approach can vary depending on the specific circumstances and agreements between countries.