France approves landmark law to return looted art

France has passed a landmark law that makes it easier to return cultural artifacts looted during the colonial era, marking a major shift in the country’s approach to its imperial history.

The legislation, approved unanimously by Parliament, creates an exception to France’s long-standing rule that objects in public collections cannot be permanently removed from museum collections. It applies to items unlawfully taken through theft, coercion, or violence between 1815 and 1972.

The move follows President Emmanuel Macron’s 2017 pledge to prioritize the return of African heritage. Until now, each restitution required a separate law, slowing the process considerably.

France has already returned several artifacts to Benin, Senegal, and Côte d’Ivoire, but experts say the new framework could accelerate future claims from former colonies.

Supporters describe the law as both a historic acknowledgment of colonial injustices and a step toward stronger cultural cooperation between France and African nations.