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Published Mar 11, 2021

480: Roger Atwood | Stealing History

Roger Atwood exposes the sophisticated operations of the illicit antiquities trade, highlighting its devastating impact on cultural heritage and archeological sites. He delves into the intricacies of the modern looting market, the ethical challenges it poses, and the crucial role museums can play in preserving history.
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  • Law Enforcement

    The role of law enforcement is crucial in combating the looting and smuggling of antiquities. emphasizes that the damage caused by looting is irreversible, as it destroys archaeological sites and the knowledge they hold 1. He argues that controlling the looting trade at its source and reducing demand through policy and ethical codes is essential 1. Additionally, Atwood highlights the importance of community involvement in protecting these sites, noting successful efforts in places like Peru and Mali 2.

    You need to control the looting trade at the source, why more surveillance has to be conducted, and why you have to start combating the looting where the demand is too.

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    Law enforcement, combined with community-driven efforts, can significantly reduce the destruction of cultural heritage.

       

    Community Involvement

    Community-driven efforts play a vital role in preserving archaeological sites and cultural heritage. Atwood shares examples from Peru, where local patrols protect burial mounds from looters 3. He explains that involving local communities in the protection of these sites can transform them into valuable resources for tourism and education 3. Atwood also discusses the challenges faced by countries like Peru in combating looting, emphasizing the need for international cooperation and support 4.

    It's an area of great innovation and experimentation around the world.

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    By fostering a sense of pride and ownership, communities can help safeguard their cultural heritage.

       

    International Cooperation

    International cooperation is essential for the protection of cultural heritage. Atwood highlights the importance of international agreements and import restrictions in curbing the demand for looted antiquities 5. He notes that countries like the United States have implemented laws that significantly reduce the market for these objects 5. Atwood also points out that more governments are joining efforts to combat this issue, with countries like Britain and Germany ratifying the UNESCO agreement 5.

    Import restrictions carried out by the US government and other governments in other buyer countries really made a difference.

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    Such cooperation is crucial in addressing the global nature of the illicit antiquities trade.

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