MOU with Italy: AIA advice

The Archaeological Institute of America (AIA) has posted advice about the forthcoming review of the MOU with Italy. I would urge readers of Looting Matters to take the time to submit their comments. 


Here is the advice from the AIA:

How can you help?

One of the first stages in renewal of an MoU is review by the Cultural Property Advisory Committee (CPAC) and you or your organization can help by writing a letter that shows your support. CPAC will make four determinations in deciding whether to renew. These are:

1. The cultural patrimony of Italy is in jeopardy from the pillage of archaeological materials.
2. Italy has taken steps to protect its cultural patrimony.
3. U.S. import restrictions are of substantial benefit in deterring the situation of pillage.
4. Import restrictions promote the interchange of cultural materials between the United States and Italy for scientific, cultural and educational purposes.

You can address these points by writing about your personal and professional experiences that give you an interest in protecting Italy’s archaeological resources. If you are a professor, teacher or student who has used or seen Roman-period art or objects of daily life in your courses, you have interest in protecting Italy’s cultural heritage. If you’ve done research in Italy, import restrictions protect your ability to study the ancient world and share your work with the public. The American public benefits from seeing well-documented objects on display in museum galleries. If you or your classes have seen pieces loaned from Italy at a local museum, you are a beneficiary of the current MoU and can write in support of its renewal.

Details of how to submit a response can be found on the AIA website.