Title: Restitution of works from the DRC looted by Belgium: a current debate that continues
Introduction:
The question of the restitution of works of art and cultural objects from the DRC, plundered during the colonial period by Belgium, remains a hot topical debate. For several years, the Congolese government, under the leadership of President Félix Tshisekedi, has been actively engaged in this restitution process. In this article, we will explore the latest advances in this process and the urgency of its resolution.
The context:
Belgium currently holds more than 80,000 works of art and cultural objects belonging to the DRC, which are exhibited in Belgian museums and institutions. This situation has become a source of concern and injustice for the DRC, which wishes to recover these objects which are part of its cultural heritage.
The actors involved:
To advance this issue, several actors have mobilized. The Congolese Prime Minister went to Belgium to discuss the issue of restitution, while the Minister of Culture, Arts and Heritage, Catherine Kathungu Furaha, received the director of the Royal Museum of Central Africa, Bart Ouvry , for discussions on the subject.
Recent advances:
According to information provided by the Congolese Ministry of Culture, meetings between the various Belgian and Congolese scientific committees are planned in the coming months to study which works should be returned. These discussions are an important step in resolving this issue and demonstrate the commitment of both parties to finding a fair solution.
International pressure:
This desire for restitution is also encouraged by growing pressure from Belgian civil society and the African diaspora, as well as by awareness within the Belgian state itself. This pressure continues to intensify, pushing for faster action in the restitution process.
Next steps:
The process of restitution of works looted by Belgium is being accelerated. Meetings between the coordination and steering committees and the joint commission are planned in the coming months to define the restitution modalities. The DRC is also preparing legally and administratively to be ready to receive these cultural goods.
Conclusion:
The restitution of works from the DRC plundered by Belgium is a major issue which remains current. Recent progress in discussions between Congolese and Belgian stakeholders shows a real desire to achieve a fair solution. It is essential to continue supporting efforts to return these cultural assets and preserve the cultural heritage of the DRC.
Sources:
– https://fatshimetrie.org/blog/2023/09/22/la-restitution-des-oeuvres-de-la-rdc-un-combat-toujours-dactualite/
– https://fatshimetrie.org/blog/2023/09/22/la-restitution-des-oeuvres-de-la-rdc-un-combat-toujours-dactualite/2
– https://fatshimetrie.org/blog/2023/09/22/la-restitution-des-oeuvres-de-la-rdc-un-combat-toujours-dactualite/3