German Bundestag Addresses Safeguarding and Preservation of German Cultural Heritage Abroad
Berlin, Germany – July 2, 2025 – The German Bundestag has today, July 2, 2025, published Drucksache 21/739, titled “Kleine Anfrage Sicherung und Pflege deutschen Kulturguts im Ausland” (Minor Inquiry on the Safeguarding and Care of German Cultural Property Abroad). This significant document outlines a series of questions posed by members of parliament regarding the current state and future strategies for the protection and maintenance of German cultural assets located outside of Germany.
The publication of this “Kleine Anfrage” signals a renewed parliamentary focus on a complex and multifaceted issue. German cultural heritage, encompassing a vast array of artifacts, artworks, historical documents, and architectural heritage, is dispersed globally due to a variety of historical circumstances, including trade, migration, colonial history, and academic expeditions. Ensuring the proper safeguarding and ongoing care of these invaluable items is of paramount importance for understanding Germany’s rich history and cultural identity.
The specific questions within Drucksache 21/739 are expected to delve into critical areas such as:
- Current Inventory and Condition: The inquiry likely seeks to understand the extent of German cultural property currently held in foreign collections, museums, archives, and private hands, as well as an assessment of their present condition.
- Legal Framework and Agreements: It is anticipated that the questions will address the existing legal frameworks and bilateral agreements that govern the protection and potential repatriation of German cultural assets. This may include examining the effectiveness of current international conventions and domestic legislation.
- Governmental and Institutional Efforts: The Bundestag members are expected to inquire about the specific initiatives and resources allocated by the German government and its relevant cultural institutions (such as the German Foreign Office, the Federal Government Commissioner for Culture and the Media, and the German Museums Association) to monitor, preserve, and facilitate the return of German cultural heritage.
- Challenges and Opportunities: The inquiry will likely explore the challenges faced in safeguarding cultural property abroad, which can include issues of ownership disputes, conservation standards, accessibility for research, and the complexities of international cooperation. It may also highlight opportunities for enhanced collaboration with host countries and international organizations.
- Future Strategies and Recommendations: The “Kleine Anfrage” serves as a platform to solicit information on any proposed future strategies, policies, or recommendations for improving the safeguarding and care of German cultural property on a global scale.
The publication of this inquiry underscores the German parliament’s commitment to addressing the responsible stewardship of its cultural heritage, irrespective of its current geographical location. It reflects a growing awareness of the shared responsibility in preserving cultural diversity and ensuring that these historical and artistic treasures remain accessible for future generations, both in Germany and internationally. The responses to these parliamentary questions will provide crucial insights into the government’s approach and may pave the way for future policy developments in this vital area of cultural diplomacy and heritage management.
21/739: Kleine Anfrage Sicherung und Pflege deutschen Kulturguts im Ausland (PDF)
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