The Beyond Restoration event, organized by the RITHMS_EU project, opened today in Brussels, highlighting the essential role of conservator-restorers in combating the trafficking of cultural property.
Through expert panels and workshops, the event fosters collaboration among heritage professionals, law enforcement, and cultural institutions, contributing to stronger policies for cultural heritage protection.
Morning Session: The Crucial Role of Conservator-Restorers
The first part of the day focused on the critical role that conservators and restorers play in the fight against the trafficking of cultural heritage. Experts discussed the unique challenges faced by these professionals, emphasizing the ethical and technical aspects of their work when dealing with damaged or recovered artifacts.
The discussion highlighted the need for collaboration between conservators, law enforcement, and cultural institutions to prevent illegal activities. It underscored the importance of maintaining professional standards, navigating legal and ethical dilemmas, and strengthening international cooperation to safeguard cultural heritage.
This session reaffirmed that conservators and restorers are not just caretakers of history but active participants in protecting cultural heritage from criminal activities.
Afternoon Session: The Role of Law Enforcement Agencies
During the Law Enforcement Agencies session, discussions shed light on the complex and dual role of conservators and restorers in the fight against trafficking of cultural heritage.
Conservators can inadvertently or knowingly become facilitators in the illegal trade of cultural goods. Misguided practices or insufficient awareness of trafficking dynamics may contribute to legitimizing stolen or forged artifacts. On the other hand, their expertise is crucial in combating this phenomenon. Conservators play a pivotal role in determining the authenticity and provenance of artworks and artifacts.
Conclusion: Strengthening Collaboration
The final session emphasized the need for enhanced collaboration between law enforcement and heritage professionals. To empower conservators and restorers, proposed measures included the development of training programs tailored to identifying red flags in trafficking, implementation of clear ethical guidelines, and building stronger networks among stakeholders to support investigations and enforcement efforts.
Ultimately, the involvement of conservators and restorers goes beyond preservation—they are vital allies in safeguarding our shared cultural heritage.