Ethical Care of Human Remains in UK Museums: A Call for Government Support

The ongoing debate surrounding the presence of overseas human remains in British museums has gained renewed attention, particularly following recent criticisms from Members of Parliament (MPs) and experts. This discourse centers on the ethical implications of housing human remains, especially those acquired during colonial times, and the responsibilities of museums in their care.

The Guardian

The issue of human remains in museum collections is not new; it has been a focal point for archaeologists, anthropologists, and museum professionals for decades. The ethical considerations surrounding these remains have prompted discussions about their treatment, care, and potential repatriation to communities of origin.

The Guardian

Professors Liv Nilsson Stutz from Linnaeus University and Sarah Tarlow from the University of Leicester emphasize that the primary concern should not be whether it is acceptable to house human remains in museums, but rather how to provide ethical care for them. Their research indicates that collection managers are often deeply concerned about the ethical challenges posed by human remains, demonstrating empathy and commitment to their care. They argue that human remains from colonial contexts tend to receive more ethical attention compared to those from local archaeological contexts.

The Guardian

Despite the efforts of museum professionals, several MPs have expressed outrage over the situation, highlighting the need for more decisive action. Critics argue that the responsibility to address the legacy of colonialism lies not only with museums but also with elected officials who possess the power to enact change. They advocate for government intervention to support ethical care practices rather than undermining the relationships built between institutions and stakeholders.

The Guardian

In response to the growing concerns, Nilsson Stutz and Tarlow suggest that the government should provide financial support for the ethical care of human remains. They contend that many remains cannot be repatriated due to various reasons, including lack of claims from descendant communities or their origins in domestic archaeological contexts. Therefore, developing ethical care practices for these often-overlooked categories is essential.

The Guardian

As the conversation around the ethical treatment of human remains continues, the role of government support will be crucial in shaping the future of museum practices. The call for a collaborative approach between museums and the state aims to foster trust and cooperation while addressing the complex legacy of colonialism.

The Guardian

• “The question for us is not whether it is acceptable that human remains can be found in “sacrilegious” conditions (clearly not), but how can we best care for human remains in museum collections?” — Prof. Liv Nilsson Stutz, Linnaeus University

The Guardian

• “Our survey clearly shows that collection managers, often with very scarce resources, are deeply concerned with the human remains in their care, and overwhelmingly demonstrate empathy and concern for them.” — Prof. Sarah Tarlow, University of Leicester

The Guardian

• “However, far greater power to address the legacy of centuries of colonialism rests with them as elected officials of the state, than with individual museums.” — Prof. Liv Nilsson Stutz, Linnaeus University

The Guardian