"Tackling the Illicit Trafficking of Cultural Property Through Private Law Means"

The 1995 Unidroit Convention on Stolen or Illegally Exported Cultural Objects has hitherto been subject of contention between states, art market stakeholders and academics alike. Criticised by some as a too theoretical instrument with little practical relevancy, the convention has – simultaneously – been praised by others as an important instrument in tackling the illicit trafficking of cultural property. The present research aims to clarify this debate and successfully demonstrates that, despite its complexity, Chapter II of the convention is appropriate to tackle cultural property and archaeological theft. Based on these findings, it issues several recommendations to secure a higher rate of participation.