International Cooperation Critical for Restitution of African Cultural Property
Addis Ababa: Ethiopia’s State Minister of Tourism, Sileshi Girma, has underscored the necessity of enhanced international cooperation to facilitate the return of cultural property to Africa. Addressing a high-level dialogue themed “New Forms of Cooperation and Agreements for the Return and Restitution of Cultural Property to Africa,” the State Minister emphasized the urgency of concerted efforts to ensure the return and preservation of Africa’s cultural heritage. He highlighted the critical role of robust interstate collaboration in addressing the challenges posed by illicit transfers.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, Sileshi pointed out that the loss of cultural heritage extends beyond physical destruction to include appropriation and wrongful possession through theft, looting, and illicit trade. He ascribed such challenges to the legacy of colonialism, stating, “Among the ill effects of colonialism on Africa, the loss of cultural heritage is at the forefront.” The state minister stressed that restitution is integral to addressing the historical injustices that have weakened the continent. He reiterated the importance of international collaboration and expressed optimism that the dialogue would foster new avenues of cooperation.
While recognizing the global nature of the challenge, he emphasized Africa’s unique context and Ethiopia’s specific vulnerabilities, pointing to external aggressions and internal looting. Sileshi highlighted Ethiopia’s efforts in cultural restitution, noting that a national committee has successfully facilitated the return of cultural objects from Europe. He reaffirmed Ethiopia’s unwavering commitment to combating illicit trafficking and strengthening partnerships for restitution.
UNESCO Liaison Office to the AUC and ECA and Representative to Ethiopia, Rita Bissoonauth, highlighted the vital role of culture in Africa’s sustainable development. She highlighted efforts to combat looting and illicit trafficking while supporting the diversification of cultural goods and services. She pointed out the growing global recognition of culture as both a driver and enabler of development over the past decade.
Citing UNESCO data, Bissoonauth noted the cultural and creative sector’s significant contribution to the global economy, supporting over 48 million jobs worldwide, with nearly half held by women. She highlighted that the sector accounts for 6.2 percent of global employment and 3.1 percent of global GDP, offering numerous opportunities for youth employment. Despite this positive impact, she acknowledged the persistent challenges facing African heritage.
Stating UNESCO’s strategic approach to culture-led development, Bissoonauth emphasized the protection and promotion of cultural diversity and the safeguarding of heritage. She highlighted efforts to combat looting and illicit trafficking while supporting the diversification of cultural goods and services. Culture-led development brings numerous non-monetized benefits, such as enhanced social inclusiveness, resilience, innovation, and entrepreneurship. It also contributes to strengthening social capital and fostering trust in public institutions, she elaborated.
Bissoonauth further outlined UNESCO’s tools and initiatives, which include conventions, guidelines, and capacity-building programs aimed at preserving and promoting cultural heritage. In conclusion, she highlighted the virtual exhibition on African Heritage in the Africa Hall, describing it as a platform to celebrate Africa’s rich cultural and natural heritage. She emphasized that cultural and natural heritage serves as a force for peace, development, and innovation, urging stakeholders to intensify efforts in safeguarding these invaluable assets.