Repatriation

What does repatriation mean?

In museum contexts, the term repatriation often refers to the process of returning cultural objects or human remains to a nation, state, indigenous people, or other group.

How does the Swedish History Museum work with repatriation?

The Swedish History Museum is part of the government agency the National Historical Museums. When a request for the return of an object is received, factors such as how the object was collected, its significance to the claimant, and the legal or ethical basis of the claim are examined. Depending on the circumstances, the government may make the final decision.

About the National Historical Museums

Why is repatriation important?

Access to one’s cultural heritage and history is important for all of us. Sometimes objects or human remains have been collected in ways that are not compatible with today’s values or under difficult historical circumstances. Occasionally, objects may also have been collected illegally. Returning such objects or remains can foster reconciliation and allow historically marginalized groups greater influence over their history and culture. For indigenous peoples, the right to their cultural heritage is also protected by instruments such as the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

How is it determined who has the right to an object?

Each case is carefully investigated, for example to verify that the claimant is legitimate. This may involve confirming that the request comes from a representative of a group or a country; it varies from case to case.

Contact us

Do you want to know more about repatriation at the National Historical Museums?

Email: registrator@shm.se