Cultural heritage crime involves the looting of artifacts, destruction of historical sites, and illegal trade of cultural property. These crimes rob nations of their identity and history, often funding organized crime and terrorism.

Global Impact:

Cultural heritage crime is a multi-billion-dollar industry, with stolen artifacts often sold on the black market to fund criminal activities. The destruction of historical sites erases cultural identity and heritage.

Effects of Cultural Heritage Crime:

• Cultural:The loss of artifacts and historical sites erases cultural identity and heritage.
• Economic:The illegal trade of cultural property funds organized crime and terrorism.
• Social:The destruction of cultural heritage undermines community identity and cohesion.

International Police Law Enforcement Commission INTCIPOL’s Role:

International Police Law Enforcement Commission – INTCIPOL’s Cultural Heritage Protection Unit works to recover stolen artifacts, prosecute offenders, and protect historical sites. We collaborate with UNESCO, INTERPOL, and other organizations to combat these crimes.

Key Initiatives:

• Artifact Recovery:Tracking and recovering stolen cultural items through international databases.
• Site Protection:Providing training and resources to safeguard historical sites.
• Public Awareness:Highlighting the importance of preserving cultural heritage.

Trafficking in cultural property is a low-risk, high-profit business for criminals with links to organized crime. From stolen artwork to historical artefacts, this crime can affect all countries, either as origin, transit or destinations.

A nation’s culture resides in the hearts and in the soul of its people