AC Joins Meridian International for a Cultural Crimes Salon on Safeguarding Culture
November 13, 2024
Cultural racketeering is not just the romantic subject of Hollywood films and mystery novels— it poses immediate threats to national security, global economy, and human rights around the world.
On November 12, the Antiquities Coalition was honored to lead a thoughtful discussion as part of the Meridian International Center’s “Cultural Diplomacy Salon Series” in partnership with the Antiquities Coalition and Lugano Diamonds, focused on the Illicit Art Market and the Fight for Cultural Preservation.
Leading experts, including Deborah Lehr, Chairman and Founder of the Antiquities Coalition, Tess Davis, Executive Director of the Antiquities Coalition, Special Agent Jessica Dittmer of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Art Crime Team, and Dr. Richard Kurin, Distinguished Scholar and Ambassador at Large for the Smithsonian Institution, came together to explore the far-reaching impacts of art crime on the world today. Most importantly, discussants drew on their collective experience to share with the government, military, civil society, and the private sector why we must pursue immediate action to combat this global threat.
Speakers called for ethical practices across the art market, noting how every part of the trade can be affected by cultural racketeering.They highlighted how changing technologies bridge gaps in oversight but also create new threats, citing examples involving AI and satellite imagery. Amidst these technological advancements, panelists upheld the centrality of interpersonal and interagency collaboration to protect cultural property.
Complex and often contradictory national and international laws can hinder law enforcement. Moving forward, governments must work together to develop robust legislation, strengthen international treaties, and leverage cultural diplomacy to combat crimes in the art and antiquities market.
The Antiquities Coalition is proud to work with partners to bring together diverse experts and perspectives to strengthen the global response to cultural racketeering, ensuring that culture remains a force for connection and diplomacy— not sold to the highest bidder.
Learn more about Meridian International’s work to safeguard culture, here.