Restitution, Reparation and Repatriation: Current Debates

This chapter explores the themes of restitution, repatriation, and reparation of African artefacts, through the lens of museum practice in Africa and Europe. Using case studies of Mwazulu Diyabanza's work and the ‘Rethinking relationships and building trust in African collections’ project, it elucidates the conventions that underpin projects stimulated by the Sarr-Savoy report. International public debate has both elevated and complicated museums’ responses to questions about African collections’ futures. In contrast to African initiated projects, European projects are often carried out with intense media attention. This chapter examines the differences between ‘public’ statements and ‘private’ practice. Critically analysing the role of the media, it interrogates the way the voices that get amplified can be a ‘continuation of’ rather than a ‘break from’ colonial legacies. There is an ethical impatience magnified in catchy headlines that doesn't easily translate into concrete action to change the status quo. With the resurgence of the Black Lives Matter movement, African artefacts have been used as a material example of a continuing loss. Within this context, museum professionals and community members converge to negotiate access to material cultural heritage and how the collections should best be cared for. The case studies in this chapter identify processes that are required for equitable conversations, that can lead to appropriate action, to be able to take place.