Culture under threat: A European Response to Illicit Trafficking

Illegal trafficking in cultural goods remains a significant global challenge, contributing to the activities of international criminal networks and accelerating the loss of cultural heritage in Europe and beyond. In response, a wide range of actors—including law enforcement agencies, cultural heritage professionals, museums, researchers, technological developers, policymakers, and civil society organisations—are engaged in collective efforts to address this issue at both national and international levels.

As part of these ongoing discussions, this ENCATC  Talk examines why a coordinated European response to illicit trafficking is essential. The session will provide an overview of relevant EU policies, initiatives, and collaborative actions currently being implemented in the field of cultural heritage protection.

Co-organised with the Michael Culture Association , participants will learn about the work undertaken within the ANCHISE project, implemented by Michael Culture. This project contributes to advancing research, tools, and strategies to strengthen the protection and traceability of cultural goods.

This ENCATC event is the first in a joint series with the Michael Culture Association, dedicated to exploring the multiple dimensions of illicit trafficking in cultural goods and the interdisciplinary approaches emerging across the European landscape.