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UNESCO

About the committee

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) was established on 16 November 1945 with 195 Members, 8 Associate Members and is governed by the General Conference and the Executive Board. Its main mission is to contribute to peace and security by promoting international cooperation in education, sciences, culture, communication and information therefore enacting promotion to cultural heritage and the equal dignity of all cultures. The committee additionally aims the world to achieve global visions of sustainable development encompassing observance of human rights, mutual respect and the alleviation of poverty. In this spirit, UNESCO develops educational tools to help people live as global citizens free of hate and intolerance. It works to ensure that every child and every citizen has access to quality education. UNESCO strengthens the bonds between nations and fosters scientific programmes and policies as platforms for development and cooperation &  stands up for freedom of expression, as a fundamental right and a key condition for democracy and development. UNESCO's programmes contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals defined in the 2030 Agenda, adopted by the UN General Assembly in 2015.

Agenda Item

Promoting Restitution or the Return of Cultural Property to its Country of  Origin

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Many countries face challenges related to the restitution of antiquities and cultural property lost during colonization, war or illicit trade. A large proportion of the historical artifacts in museums around the world were often seized by force, looted as spoils of war, or sold. In the pre-1970 period, there was no international treaty or law for looted antiquities, so many nations have no legal claim to recover such objects. Museums, on the other hand, argue that they are better able to preserve these artifacts, especially from regions prone to war and destruction. The return of historical artifacts to their countries of origin is a crucial step towards addressing historical injustices and promoting the preservation of cultural heritage. Delegates on this committee will seek to collaborate to develop sustainable and equitable solutions for the return of historical artifacts to their rightful owners.

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