Germany Strengthens Efforts to Address Colonialism, Nazi-Era Legacy

Germany is stepping up its efforts to right the wrongs of its past. A new guide and contact point aim to make the return of looted art and cultural remains easier and more transparent.

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2025 October 15 . 4:03 AM

1 min read

This is the picture of a museum plaque on which there is something written and also we can see some... — This is the picture of a museum plaque on which there is something written and also we can see some sculptures on it.

Germany to Facilitate Return of Colonial-Era Artifacts - Germany Strengthens Efforts to Address Colonialism, Nazi-Era Legacy

Germany is bolstering its efforts to tackle the remnants of colonialism and the Nazi era. A revised guide for the return of Nazi-looted art will be released in December, while a new contact point for colonial-era restitution is being set up. The moves aim to provide clarity and facilitate the return of cultural goods and human remains.

The updated joint guide, due in December, will offer clear advice on arbitration processes. An international network of experts will support German museums in navigating restitution procedures.

Germany's colonial past saw the mass transportation of cultural goods and human remains to European states. Common guidelines have now been agreed upon to address these items, providing a framework for their return.

Recently, Germany has made progress in this area, returning hundreds of Benin Bronzes to Nigeria. Laura Georgi has been appointed as the head of the new contact point, which will serve as a central hub for foreign governments seeking the restitution of artifacts from colonial contexts in Germany.

The revision of the Nazi-looted art guide and the establishment of the new contact point demonstrate Germany's dedication to addressing its historical responsibilities. These steps aim to facilitate the return of cultural goods and human remains from colonial contexts, promoting justice and cultural understanding.