In a groundbreaking initiative, ICOM, working alongside ICOM Greece and the Hellenic Ministry of Culture, has announced the creation of the ICOM Red List of Greek Cultural Objects at Risk. This significant undertaking aims to thwart the illegal trafficking of Greece’s cultural treasures by pinpointing the categories of artefacts most susceptible to illicit trade, thus protecting the nation’s rich heritage.
This vital list serves as an essential resource for law enforcement, museums, cultural institutions, and the art market. It plays a pivotal role in identifying and preventing the trafficking of invaluable Greek artefacts. Developed with contributions from museum experts and law enforcement, it reinforces ICOM’s ongoing commitment to heritage protection.
ICOM Director General Medea S. Ekner highlighted the urgency of this initiative, stating, “Given Greece’s rich history and cultural significance, it remains a prime target for illicit trade, particularly through clandestine excavations. I extend my gratitude to the Greek experts and professionals whose invaluable contributions have made this Red List possible.”
Greek cultural heritage is perpetually threatened by theft, looting, and illegal trafficking, which has resulted in many antiquities being removed from their original sites. The Red List outlines vulnerable cultural objects, aiding authorities in their identification and safeguarding efforts against ongoing illegal activities.
Lina Mendoni, the Greek Minister of Culture, noted the educational purpose of these Red Lists. “The global recognition and utilization of these lists are pivotal in fighting illicit trafficking,” she remarked, emphasising the importance of cooperation among international authorities in tackling these crimes. The recent event at the Acropolis Museum showcased a united front against cultural crimes.
Developed collaboratively, the Red List categorises nine types of endangered cultural objects, along with 52 photographic examples from notable Greek museums. Sophie Delepierre, Head of ICOM’s Heritage Protection Department, affirmed, “With the introduction of the ICOM Red List for Greek Cultural Objects at Risk, we add another layer to this robust framework of protection.”
Available online and disseminated globally, the Red List is an indispensable tool for law enforcement agencies, museums, and the art market, fortifying efforts against the illicit trafficking of cultural artefacts.
The ICOM Red List of Greek Cultural Objects at Risk has been launched to combat the illicit trafficking of Greece’s cultural heritage. This initiative, in collaboration with ICOM Greece and the Hellenic Ministry of Culture, helps identify vulnerable artefacts, providing essential resources to law enforcement and cultural institutions. The list highlights nine categories of at-risk objects, supported by professional insights, and is available globally to aid in protecting Greek antiquities.
The introduction of the ICOM Red List of Greek Cultural Objects at Risk marks a significant step in the fight against the illegal trafficking of Greece’s rich cultural heritage. Through precise categorisation and international cooperation, this initiative seeks to safeguard numerous historical artefacts that are under threat from theft and looting. With continued support from experts and educational outreach, the Red List serves as a beacon of hope for preserving Greece’s treasures for future generations.
Original Source: greekcitytimes.com
