Arts Council England publishes restitution and repatriation guidance

Arts Council England (ACE) commissioned the Institute of Art and Law to develop guidance to support the museums sector in matters related to the restitution and repatriation of cultural objects.  The guidance provides a practical framework for museums to consider and manage potential restitution and repatriation cases.  

The guidance is underpinned by existing policy and legislative framework and supports museums in making decisions and managing cases in a legally appropriate and ethically responsible manner.  It does not change any policy or legislation. 

The guidance is intended to provide advice and best practice for museums in England on responding to restitution and repatriation cases. It sets out recommendations on all aspects of museum operations affected by these issues, guiding and empowering museums to take proactive action in a spirit of transparency, collaboration and fairness, qualities that sit at the heart of this guidance.

When it comes to responding to restitution and repatriation cases, every situation is different. Objects in museums will have been acquired at different times, in varying circumstances, and by institutions with differing structures, sizes, priorities and collection types. Objects can also include scientific and natural history specimens. There may be many people, groups and organisations with different connections to, and interests in, these items. While cases can therefore be complex and time-consuming, they often present rich opportunities for enhancing understanding for all involved.

Considering a claim for restitution can offer the opportunity for museums to develop their collections knowledge and research, to build relationships with originating communities, to open up dialogue around contested items and to create opportunities for discourse and discussion around cultural heritage.

While the guidance is aimed at English museums, the principles behind it may be applicable for museums across the UK and internationally.

Restitution and Repatriation: A Practical Guide for Museums in England can be downloaded from the ACE website.

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