ILLICIT TRAFFICKING AND REPATRIATION CULTURAL HERITAGE

(HAR421)
Assignment Instructions
 Essays must be typed using Times New Roman, 12 font size, 1.5 spacing and
paragraphs justified
 There must be a cover page to your essay. The question should be captured in full.
 Assignments to be submitted as hard copies
 Late submissions NOT tolerated

First Assignments

Due Date: 15 March 2024

1. ‘‘The repatriation of African cultural property is a matter of justice and a way to

restore dignity to African people who have been robbed of their cultural heritage’’.
Discuss.

2. Discuss how inadequate documentation has hindered claims of ownership and the
return of cultural property to supposed countries of origin.

3. Why do many nations condemn the illicit trade in cultural property? In your opinion,
what measures can be taken by these nations to curb this trade?

4. Make an assessment of the reasons that have been given by countries resisting the
return of cultural properties to countries of origin.

5. Discuss the context in which Africa cultural heritage is plundered to satisfy the global
trade in cultural property. Support your answer.

6. Present an informed discussion surrounding the return of human remains to countries

of origin. Support your answer with relevant examples.

7. How well is Zimbabwe doing in curbing the illicit trade in cultural property? In your
opinion, what should the Zimbabwean government do to curb loss of its cultural
property?

PRSENTATIONS
1. Present a discussion of the following theories of cultural property:
a. Internationalist/Paternalist Theory
b. Nationalist Theory

2. The concept of Universal Museums

a. Definitions and justification
b. Discuss points against universal museums
 3. Provide an evaluation of the main articles of the:
a. 1970 Convention on the means of Prohibiting and Preventing the Illicit Import,
Trade and Transfer of Ownership of Cultural Property.
b. 1995 Unidroit Convention on Stolen or Illegally Exported Cultural Objects

4. Discuss the global trade in cultural property and present a discussion of how the
following organizations have helped in curbing the illicit trade in cultural property:

a. UNESCO
b. INTERPOL
c. ICOM

5. Debate the view that African cultural objects should not be repatriated because
African countries lack the specialised expertise and resources to care for and preserve
these cultural objects.

INCLASS TEST- 27 MARCH 2024