Legal approaches to the trade in stolen antiquities

As the home of the largest market for stolen or illegally exported antiquities, the United States is in a superior position to influence the world antiquities trade. The countries victimized are often archaelogically rich but economically poor, so the incentives for individuals to sell objects to foreigners often override the effect of contrary national policies.

A knowledge of United States official policy and the availability of judicial and private remedies is crucial to governments seeking recovery of plundered national treasures. The intent of this article is to explore the nature of the trade, and to review international and domestic legal approaches, relevant United States Government policies, and suggested alternatives.