NEW YORK (ANA-MPA/G. Garantzioti) –
The Permanent Representative to the United Nations Ambassador Evangelos C. Sekeris, introduced at the 79th Plenary Session of the UN General Assembly the draft resolution entitled “Return or restitution of cultural property to the countries of origin.” The resolution is a Greek initiative, adopted by consensus and with the co-sponsorship of 146 UN Member States. This represents the highest number achieved to date. It is also worth noting that this is the first occasion on which all 27 EU Member States have co-sponsored the resolution.
The key points of the decision are as follows:
Challenges in the protection of cultural property
The illicit trade in cultural objects has been exacerbated by the involvement of organised crime, money laundering and the use of online platforms and the Dark Internet for illicit trade. Armed conflicts, both international and domestic, have resulted in targeted attacks, looting and illicit trafficking of cultural property. It is not uncommon for terrorist groups to utilise stolen objects as a source of funding for their activities. The UN and UNESCO are playing a pivotal role in combating illicit trafficking and promoting the return of cultural property. This is being done through initiatives such as the 1970 Convention and partnerships with INTERPOL and other organisations.
Strengthening legal frameworks
The resolution calls on Member States to ensure documented proof of origin and export certificates for cultural goods traded internationally, including those traded online.
Latest developments
In a groundbreaking move, the decision expresses serious concern about cultural property removed before the 1970 Convention entered into force and calls for its return. This is a pivotal step in recognising the importance of cultural identity and heritage for countries of origin.
International cooperation
The resolution welcomes international engagement through initiatives such as the Pact of the Future and the Mondiacult Declaration, which promote return and cooperation. It also emphasises the collective responsibility of the international community to safeguard cultural heritage in times of peace and conflict.
Sekeris emphasised that the return of cultural goods marks the start of a mutually beneficial relationship through cultural and scientific cooperation. He also stressed that the decision aims to safeguard the collective memory of humanity and cultural identity, while fostering international understanding and goodwill. Greece requested that all member states provide support and co-sign this important decision. “It is of the utmost importance for us all to recognise that the protection of human life will always remain our primary concern, but that respect for a people’s cultural identity is also vital. While human life is of greater importance than objects, it is nevertheless necessary to respect the rules for the protection of cultural property, as it is the collective memory of humanity and symbolises human life itself,” Sekeris noted.
