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Netherlands Returns 28,000 Fossils to Indonesia in Historic Repatriation

9/27/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The Netherlands will return over 28,000 fossils, including Java Man, to Indonesia.
Fossils are from the Dubois Collection and were taken in 1891.
The Dutch Independent Colonial Collections Committee says the fossils were likely removed against the local population's will.
This marks the sixth repatriation; 2023 saw Indonesia receive over 200 artefacts, and Nigeria 113 Benin Bronzes earlier this year.

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Story summary

The Netherlands will return over 28,000 fossils, including Java Man, to Indonesia.
Fossils are from the Dubois Collection and were taken in 1891.
The Dutch Independent Colonial Collections Committee says the fossils were likely removed against the local population's will.
This marks the sixth repatriation; 2023 saw Indonesia receive over 200 artefacts, and Nigeria 113 Benin Bronzes earlier this year.