Ethics and Human Remains in Museums and Other Institutions

Human remains derived from archaeological excavations and other practices are held in museums and institutions across the world. Ethical approaches to many aspects of engaging with ancestral and archaeological human remains are at the forefront of academic, professional and public debates, including but not limited to their display, storage, conservation, and repatriation. To date, official guidance from international governing bodies has been limited or absent regarding these engagements in collections contexts. Although well intended, where they do exist some guidelines are vague and subject to interpretation, and many have not included consultation or collaboration with descent communities. This session provides an opportunity for members of descent communities and all ‘communities of implication’ to present research, practice, problems or priorities regarding ethical approaches to ancestral and archaeological human remains in museums and other institutions across the world. The end goal of this session is to share ideas,resources, and better practice strategies regarding museum engagements with this unique and critical aspect of global cultural heritage