Antiquities Coalition and Meridian International Host Diplomatic Dialogue on Antiquities Trafficking and Repatriation in Asia
March 12, 2026
When antiquities are looted, we lose far more than objects. We lose context, knowledge, and the stories that connect communities to their past. Today, the consequences of illicit antiquities trafficking are particularly visible across Asia, where a growing crisis threatens archaeological sites and cultural heritage.
To address these challenges, the Antiquities Coalition and the Meridian International Center convened a high-level diplomatic dialogue in Washington, DC, bringing together senior representatives from across Asia.
Diplomats representing nations from ASEAN+3 joined the discussion to exchange perspectives on emerging threats, practical tools for enforcement and prevention, and opportunities to strengthen cooperation among governments, law enforcement, museums, and responsible actors in the art market.
Regional cooperation is essential to confronting the illicit antiquities trade. Stolen objects often pass through multiple countries before appearing years—or even decades—later in galleries, auction houses, or private collections around the world. The global nature of the market means no country can address this challenge alone.
“There are reasons for optimism,” said Deborah Lehr, Chairman and Founder of the Antiquities Coalition. “There is growing political awareness, and increasingly informed consumers who understand that many of these objects were removed illegally. Governments are strengthening laws and cooperation, and we are seeing important examples of successful returns.”
Across Asia, governments are advancing solutions to promote responsible market practices and strengthen cultural heritage protection. These efforts include multilateral commitments such as the 2022 G20 Statement on Cultural Heritage under the Indonesian Presidency, and bilateral efforts such as U.S. Cultural Property Agreements with partner nations. These frameworks are already producing results, with countries such as Cambodia and China celebrating major returns of stolen cultural heritage.
The Antiquities Coalition looks forward to continuing dialogue with partners across Asia and beyond to strengthen global security and protect our shared heritage.