Conference on Preventing Illicit Trafficking in Cultural Goods

Porto, November 14-15, 2024

Recalling the 1970 UNESCO Convention on the Measures to be Adopted for Prohibiting and Preventing the Illicit Import, Export and Transfer of Ownership of Cultural Property, which celebrates its 54th anniversary on November 14, 2024, is more crucial than ever. The illicit flow of cultural goods remains the third largest in terms of volume, after drugs and arms. A cultural issue, this shady business that thrives in areas of conflict, has also become a threat to international peace and security. However, in half a century, much has been achieved to develop preventive laws, train professionals, strengthen international cooperation and encourage the return of stolen or illegally exported works. Greater awareness of the cultural, moral and material damage caused by this trafficking, now recognized as a war crime by the United Nations, is proof of this. With this day, which marks the International Day against Illicit Trafficking in Cultural Property for the first time in Portugal, organized in close collaboration and with the support of CITCEM – Transdisciplinary Research Centre “Culture, Space and Memory”, of the Faculty of Letters of the University of Porto, and the Porto City Council, ICOM Portugal aims to highlight the importance of the 1970 Convention, helping to raise awareness, improve the exchange of information and cooperation (including with non-EU countries) and strengthen training and expertise, with the presentation of new international projects related to the prevention of illicit trafficking. The proceedings on November 14 will be conducted in English, without simultaneous translation. Participation is free, but registration is required by email to direccao@icom-portugal.org.

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