France approves return of African treasures looted during colonial period
By Agencies - RFI
DEC 18, 2020
French MPs have approved the return of looted historical artefacts to Benin and Senegal, completing the legislative process needed to give back the objects.
Benin will receive 26 artefacts taken from the Palace of Behanzin in the late 19th century, including a royal throne, which are currently exhibited at the Quai Branly-Jacques Chirac museum in Paris.
Senegal will get back a 19th-century sword once wielded by a 19th century sheikh. The sword and its scabbard are part of France s Army Museum collection but are currently on show in Dakar as part of a long-term loan.
French Senate blocks restitution of 27 artefacts to Benin and Senegal in dispute with National Assembly theartnewspaper.com - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from theartnewspaper.com Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.
The French government recently returned the crown of Madagascar’s last queen, Ranavalona III, via diplomatic channels, bypassing Parliament
UPDATE: France will return 27 colonial-era artefacts in museums to Benin and Senegal within one year, following a
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CORRECTION: This article mistakenly stated that the French Senate had blocked the restitution bill. The Senate approved the restitutions, but added an amendment to the bill that the government refused. The National Assembly has the power to override the Senate, as it did on 17 December by voting through the restitution bill. The article also wrongly conflated the Senate’s decision on the bill on 15 December with its separate presentation of an information report on the issue of restitution on 16 December. The article has been updated to rectify these errors.