The United Nations, Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) founded in 1945 and headquartered in Paris, France, reaffirms a strong commitment to the restitution of African cultural heritage, framing the return of local artifacts as essential for historical justice, cultural rights, and identity according as reported by ENA, the official news agency of the government of Ethiopia.
Key features of the initiative include bilateral negotiations, developing local museum capacity, training heritage professionals, and utilizing the 1970 Convention to fight illicit trafficking.
The message by UNESCO reiterating its commitment was clear and direct, stressing that the return of displaced cultural property constitutes a cultural right, an act of historical justices and a fundamental element of people’s identity.
This message was highlighted during a high - level event which took place in the capital of Ethiopia, Addis Ababa focusing on restitution, cultural rights, and the right to memory, with the participation of experts, authorities and civil society representatives from Africa and Latin America.
Key Aspects of UNESCO’s commitment include:
• Focus on Restorative Justice: Restitution is viewed as a means to repair historical injustices, allowing African nations to reconnect with their heritage and strengthen collective memory.
• Capacity Building and Training: Initiatives like “Reclaiming Our Heritage” in Southern Africa focus on training local experts, negotiators, and curators to handle the return of cultural property.
• Institutional Frameworks: UNESCO supports the strengthening of African museums to safely house returned items, linking this to the “Global Priority Africa” strategy.
• International Cooperation: Through the Intergovernmental Committee (ICPRCP), UNESCO facilitates negotiations between Africa states and holding institutions.
During the forum, it was highlighted that more than 90% of Africa’s ancient cultural objects remain outside the continent. Participants agreed the restitution should be understood as a fundamental right, closed linked to historical memory, cultural identity and restorative justice, in line with African normative frameworks, UNESCO conventions and international law.
Representatives of UNESCO, Ethiopia and Morocco agreed that culture is a pillar of sovereignty, social cohesion and development, and that strengthening its protection and restitution is key to the future of the continent.
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https://tvbrics.com/es/news/unesco-reafirma-su-compromiso-con-la-restituci-n-del-patrimonio-cultural-africano/
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