Objectives:
The objective of this policy is to put in place procedures ‘for handling external incoming requests for return’, with the intention of balancing ‘proactive return…in relation to to other business plans’.
Restitution Measures:
The policy puts a case-by-case assessment of demands in place. The policy notes that material heritage can be returned if it was stolen, looted, illegally exported from its country of origin, or if there are compelling ethical reasons. Return can also be contemplated when cultural property was obtained from someone who did not hold legitimate ownership at the time it was acquired.
Framework Limitations:
Return is optional and requires approval and implementation by the State, but it is not compulsory. This choice considers other business interests, so it does not take precedence over them.
