South and Southeast Asia are emerging as powerful leaders in the global fight against cultural racketeering. Building on existing commitments, such as those by ASEAN, countries across the region continue to shape solutions to protect heritage and support communities impacted by looting and trafficking.

On June 16-18, heritage professionals came together in Lalitpur, Nepal, to issue the Lalitpur Call to International Action for the Return of Stolen Heritage, stating:

“We believe it is our common responsibility to raise the voice of the voiceless communities that have seen and continue to face loss of heritage.”

This powerful statement emerged as the key outcome of the International Conference on the Recovery of Cultural Heritage, hosted by the Nepal Heritage Recovery Campaign (NHRC) and Nepal’s Department of Archaeology in Kathmandu. The conference convened global experts, government officials, and advocates to explore how the return of sacred antiquities contributes to justice, healing, and reconciliation for communities affected by cultural plunder.

A theme across the conference: repatriation offers more than the return of stolen heritage—it creates opportunities for collaboration and sparks vital conversations about living heritage. Too often, these discussions are often missing from traditional policy debates, particularly in Asian contexts. Digging to the root of the problem, conference attendees agreed that cultural racketeering is best combated in market countries, where demand is high. 

The Antiquities Coalition was honored to join these important dialogues. Through participation in panel discussions and workshops, AC Director of Programs Helena Arose engaged with partners from across the globe to advance shared solutions, highlight effective policy models, and strengthen cooperation in the fight against cultural racketeering.

The Lalitpur Call to International Action for the Return of Stolen Heritage is a rallying point for all committed to protecting cultural heritage. The declaration deserves to be shared widely—and its principles put into practice. The Antiquities Coalition encourages governments, institutions, and individuals alike to read the declaration and support the vital efforts of the Nepal Heritage Recovery Campaign.

Read the Lalitpur Call to International Action for the Return of Stolen Heritage.

The Nepal Heritage Recovery Campaign has become a global model for action. Through tireless advocacy, community engagement, and international partnerships, the NHRC has helped secure the return of dozens of sacred objects to Nepal, restoring both cultural treasures and the dignity of the communities from which they were taken. Its work demonstrates what is possible when local leadership and global solidarity align.

Learn more about the NHRC here.