Objectives:
This Constitution outlines the legal status, aims, objectives, functions and administrative protocols for Museums Association of Namibia (a non-governmental organisation).
Restitution Measures:
None.
The organisation’s constitutional aims include:
Seeking the repatriation of cultural property of Namibian origin held in museums outside Namibia and seeking to prevent the illegal trade in cultural artefacts from Namibia. Serving as the umbrella organisation for all Namibian museums.
Framework Limitations:
As an NGO, MAN has no legal authority to enforce restitution claims or compel foreign institutions to return cultural property. MAN cannot act independently on restitution matters. While the Constitution mandates MAN to seek repatriation of cultural property, it has no jurisdiction over:
International negotiations (handled by government ministries)
Legal disputes in foreign courts
Direct enforcement of claims against foreign institutions
Decisions on final placement or custody of repatriated items (these involve traditional authorities and government bodies)
