Annaliese Hawkins | Middle East Fellow
Tablet V of the Epic of Gilgamesh. Image sourced from Osama Shukir Muhammed Amin via Wikimedia Commons.
Hailed as the ‘cradle of civilisation,’ Iraq pioneered irrigation systems and written language that shaped global development. Today, the nation is seeking the repatriation of its invaluable physical heritage. Approximately 120,000 artefacts have been looted from Iraq since 2003. This not only deprives Iraq of its cultural heritage but also reinforces the unequal power dynamics and exploitation inherent under colonial rule.
The return of Iraqi artefacts from Western institutions is a necessary step in addressing the injustices of colonialism and ameliorating geopolitical relations. If undertaken correctly, it can be a valuable diplomatic tool. Returning artefacts to their rightful place will instil a renewed sense of power and pride in Iraqi culture and aid in rebuilding global relationships.
Historical Context and Legacy of Colonialism
Condemnation surrounding the looting of cultural artefacts dates back to the Roman Republic. Importantly, however, modern repatriation claims represent a pursuit of restorative justice that requires acknowledging past wrongs—something nations and institutions often resist.
Despite the country’s early laws to protect antiquities, British-administered Iraq was increasingly looted following World War I. British oversight of Iraqi sites and the creation of its National Museum exemplify the colonial influence on Iraq’s cultural management in these years. After gaining independence, Iraq's lifted export ban made it a renewed target for global looters, a problem which was exacerbated by the Gulf War and subsequent conflict. The looting surged again post-2003 as a result of inadequate protection during the US-led invasion, with political pressures and targeted artefact destruction by Islamic State (IS) further complicating the situation.
This history highlights how colonialism facilitated the systematic plundering of Iraqi artefacts, leaving a lasting impact on Iraq's cultural heritage. Today, efforts to repatriate these artefacts are central to addressing past injustices and restoring cultural pride.
Recent Repatriation Efforts
The Iraqi government's active pursuit of its cultural artefacts, supported by UNESCO, depicts the combined political will to address historical injustices stemming from colonial and conflict-era looting. Tens of thousands of artefacts have been returned from all over the world, including France, Italy, Egypt and Saudi Arabia. For example, the successful repatriation of the 3,500-year-old ‘Dream of Gilgamesh’ tablet, a cornerstone of world literature, marks a significant achievement in the preservation of cultural heritage. Seized by US authorities after being smuggled and illicitly traded, the tablet’s return to Iraq underscores the importance of international cooperation in rectifying historical injustices.
However, institutions have quickly learned that repatriation is not always met with open arms, nor does this act excuse or signal an end to colonialism. In 2023, Cornell University alone repatriated just over 5,000 ancient clay tablets to Iraq. Yet the Iraqi minister of culture, Mr. Nadhem, expressed his displeasure over Cornell University’s failure to consult Iraq during their research, attributing it to a lingering colonial sentiment of superiority. Furthermore, many artefacts remain easily accessible on online markets, often with questionable provenance—a stark reminder of how much cultural heritage is still at risk. Nevertheless, these efforts to restore vital pieces of Iraqi history set a crucial precedent for future diplomatic initiatives to rectify past grievances.
How Repatriation and Diplomacy Can Go Hand-in-Hand
Repatriation negotiations can occasionally strain relations between countries, as seen through the U.K-Greece debate on the fate of the Elgin Marbles. This should not, however, undermine their power to make amends. For example, the handing over of Iraqi artefacts by the US has significantly enhanced diplomatic efforts between the two nations, fostering a spirit of cooperation and respect. These successful repatriations, including notable items like the Gilgamesh tablet, showcases the colonial power’s commitment to rectifying past wrongs and preserving cultural heritage. It also serves as an inspiring model for other nations, highlighting the value of utilising repatriation to heal historical grievances and build stronger diplomatic ties.
This is further exemplified by Iraq's recent partnership with Italy amid the Palestine-Israel conflict. The return of a 2,800-year-old stone tablet from Italy to Iraq in 2023 underscored Italy's commitment to rectifying historical injustices and fostering mutual respect. Moreover, a recent bilateral deal to support both countries’ private investments suggests that repatriation may help to foster cooperative efforts in promoting dialogue and de-escalation in the Middle East. Such an act of diplomacy not only enhances bilateral relations but also has broader implications for Middle Eastern geopolitics, as it encourages regional stability and collaboration through the shared goal of preserving and respecting cultural heritage. The trend of reclamation can be seen in neighbouring states such as Egypt, which has recently welcomed a number of artefacts back home. This signals a regional shift towards fostering mutual respect stronger diplomatic ties.
However, not all colonial actors are taking this path of cooperation through repatriation. For example, the British Museum continues to house precious Egyptian artefacts such as the Rosetta Stone despite calls for its return. Similarly, France, as home to one of the world’s biggest artefact museums, could hinder its budding relationship with Iraq if it continues to avoid the topic of repatriation.
Repatriating Iraqi artefacts is a crucial step in addressing the historical injustices of colonialism. The return of cultural treasures acknowledges the colonial exploitation and theft and works toward rectifying these wrongs. Successful repatriation efforts, such as the return of the Gilgamesh tablet and artefacts from institutions like Cornell University, highlight how repatriation-related diplomacy can enhance bilateral ties and foster mutual respect. The broader geopolitical implications are significant, as these efforts promote regional stability and cooperation work to heal historical grievances and build stronger, more respectful international relationships.
Annaliese Hawkins is the Middle East Fellow for Young Australians in International Affairs. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Melbourne, majoring in Politics and International Studies, with a minor in French. During an exchange semester at Sciences Po in France, she earned a Certificate of Social Sciences and Humanities. Her studies focused on Middle Eastern and South Asian politics. As a participant in the YAIA Fellowship program, Annaliese is excited to bring her background and skills to new projects and discussions.
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