In a landmark decision, the French National Assembly unanimously voted on June 29 to pass a new law that enables public institutions to restitute Nazi-looted objects that are part of their collections. This legislation marks a significant step forward in streamlining the restitution process, which was previously hindered by a cumbersome procedure that required individual legislation to be passed for each case.
The newly adopted heritage code provides a framework for public collections to return objects and artworks to the heirs of their original Jewish owners without the need for separate legislation in each instance. The law encompasses cultural property that was proven to have been stolen or involuntarily surrendered between January 30, 1933, and May 8, 1945. According to the French Ministry of Culture, an estimated 100,000 artworks were seized during the Second World War in the context of anti-Semitic persecution.
The previous restitution efforts were impeded by France’s heritage code, which classified museum collections as “inalienable.” However, with the passage of this law, France is taking a significant step forward in rectifying historical injustices and addressing the consequences of Nazi looting.
Restitution and repatriation have been priorities for French President Emmanuel Macron’s administration. Last year, the National Assembly successfully overcame opposition from the French Senate to transfer ownership of 26 stolen royal artifacts from the Musée du Quai Branly-Jacques Chirac to the Republic of Benin. Additionally, one object from the Army Museum was returned to Senegal. These transfers were made with the condition that the cultural property continues to be preserved and exhibited to the public in suitable locations.
French Culture Minister Rima Abdul Malak expressed her hope for significant progress in restitutions in her annual New Year speech on January 16, stating, “I hope 2023 will be a year of decisive progress for restitutions.” She emphasized that France’s approach to its history should be one of recognition, neither denying nor repenting, but acknowledging the importance of addressing past injustices.
The passage of this law reflects France’s commitment to confronting its historical legacy and ensuring that justice is served by returning looted artworks to their rightful owners. It sets a powerful precedent and paves the way for future restitution efforts, reinforcing the country’s dedication to preserving cultural heritage and rectifying the consequences of Nazi looting during a dark chapter of history.