Illicit trafficking of cultural properties in Arab States

Abstract

The present edited research aims to capture a bird's-eye view of the phenomenon of illicit trafficking of cultural properties and to serve as a reference point for governments, enforcement agencies, international organizations, stakeholders, and civil societies. The targeted geographic region is the Arab World, the countries in the Middle East, Arabic Gulf, Horn of Africa and North Africa. There is absence of a holistic approach on the topic in this region. The present work investigates the nature of illicit trafficking of cultural properties, means and impact of illicit activities and crimes perpetrated against archaeological sites and museums. It attempts to fill a gap of knowledge on the phenomenon of illicit trafficking of cultural properties. Through up-todate information, grounded on a solid research data, tracing the routes of illicit trafficking, analyzing the actual situation of the targeted region with an eye over the implementation of the international conventions, we aim to investigate possible firm responses to illicit trafficking and determine the priorities and needs of this region. We expect to translate the outcomes of this work into visible recommendations on the challenge of illicit trafficking of cultural properties in Arab region, to promote modalities for sharing data, and to encourage reviewing the legislative and judicial systems and practices connected to illicit trafficking of cultural properties. And finally, encourage coordination of stakeholders and using technological advances to fulfill this monumental duty.