French lawmakers passed a bill on Monday designed to simplify the process of returning artworks looted during the colonial era to their countries of origin, according to a report by France 24.
The legislation seeks to remove legal hurdles that have historically prevented the repatriation of cultural heritage to African nations.
Speaking with France 24's Sharon Gaffney, historian Marie Cécile Zinsou, President of the Zinsou Fondation, described the restitution of these artifacts as "a moral obligation."
Zinsou emphasized that the return of these items is fundamental to the restoration of national identities across the African continent.
Restoring national identity
The move follows years of pressure from African leaders and historians regarding the presence of looted treasures in European museums.
Zinsou noted that the process of returning these pieces is essential for reclaiming cultural heritage that was stripped during colonial rule.
The bill provides a legal framework to facilitate the transfer of ownership for items held in French institutions.
France 24 reported that the legislative action marks a shift in the diplomatic and cultural relationship between France and its former colonies.
