A new phase in movements for the restitution of African cultural heritage

Abstract

Calls for the return of items of cultural significance removed during the colonial period took off as African countries became independent. However, they had little impact until the early 2010s. Since then, restitution of cultural goods has been increasing. A number of organizations from civil society, based in both Europe and Africa, are using modern communications techniques to gain media attention and to apply pressure to European governments.