The Cairo Conference on Restitution

Queen- Mother Idia, Benin, Nigeria, now in the British Museum, London, United Kingdom

The Cairo Conference on Restitution was an important event as it entailed an attempt in by countries with restitution demands to organise themselves and collectively demand the return of their cultural artefacts. The conference did not concern itself much with discussions on the revision of the 1970 UNESCO Convention; instead the conference demonstrated the importance of joining forces. Secondly, it was acknowledged at this conference that restitution is not a question of legality but rather one of politics. The question of restitution should therefore be primarily addressed to the government concerned rather than their museums.

The Declaration on the Value and Importance of Universal Museum proclaims that artefacts kept over a long period in those museums become part of the culture of the countries where they are located. The Cairo Conference on the other hand demands that these objects also be returned to the countries of origin, in question are mainly iconic artefacts that have been over decades in these “universal museums”. The success of the Cairo requests will have an impact on other demands for restitution of cultural objects. The conference will be convened annually, with the next year’s meeting scheduled for April 2011 where it is hoped that 60 countries will participate.

South Africa has also concerned itself with the issue of restitution, the draft policy on the Repatriation of Heritage Resources that is currently being developed by the National Heritage Council (NHC) is a quantum leap for South Africa in terms the repatriation cultural objects, it also addresses other forms of repatriation such as that oh human remains and victims of the struggle against apartheid. In terms of restitution of cultural objects that are currently in other countries, the involvement of the state is proposed, however, it could be prudent for South Africa to join forces with other affected nations in order to contribute to the collective voice on restitution. South Africans who work in this area may find it useful to participate in the April 2011 conference in Greece.

Museum Security Network: Reflections on the Cairo Conference on Restitution: Encouraging Beginnings

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