Mahama calls for global framework to speed return of African artifacts
President John Mahama has called for a more structured global approach to reparative justice, arguing that the return of African artifacts and human remains should move beyond symbolic gestures.
Addressing a UN event in New York, he said recent returns of cultural treasures by some countries and institutions were encouraging, but insisted that lasting solutions require international systems that make restitution easier and more transparent.
“But moral justice cannot rely on piecemeal generosity or isolated acts of goodwill.”
Mahama urged the United Nations, UNESCO and countries holding African artifacts to establish clear mechanisms for provenance research and restitution, including the unconditional return of human remains.
A key part of his message was a rejection of claims that African countries lack the capacity to care for returned heritage items.
“We reject that argument.”
He said ongoing continental initiatives, including the African Union’s planned Great African Museum, demonstrate that Africa is preparing the infrastructure needed to preserve and protect its cultural heritage.
The President described the restitution agenda as an important step in addressing historical injustices linked to slavery, colonialism and the removal of Africa’s cultural property.
Source: 3News
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