British Museum facing renewed calls to return cultural relics

The British Museum is grappling with a theft scandal involving the disappearance, theft, or damage of valuable artifacts, some dating back to 15th century B.C. Around 2,000 antiquities have reportedly been stolen. The director resigned, acknowledging a deficient response to warnings. Former V&A Museum chief Mark Jones is now interim director. Industry experts express shock and doubt about full recovery, citing inadequate cataloging. Many countries are urging the return of their respective items, questioning the museum’s ability to safeguard cultural heritage. Greece is demanding the return of the Elgin Marbles, and Nigeria seeks the return of the Benin Bronzes, emphasizing their illegal removal. Critics highlight the irony of the British Museum’s reluctance to return artifacts on security grounds.

Source – CGTN