‘Restitution and Repatriation’ Lecture Series

 The illicit trafficking of cultural objects represents a growing form of transnational crime that poses significant challenges to cultural heritage protection and regional security. Given the cross-border and multi-jurisdictional nature of this phenomenon, no single source nation can effectively address this complex challenge alone. However, regional cooperation mechanisms for combating the illicit trafficking of cultural objects remain at an early stage of development, particularly within the China-ASEAN context. This lecture examines the development of China-ASEAN cooperation in addressing the illicit trafficking, export, import and transfer of cultural objects, with particular attention to the challenges and opportunities of regional regime-building. It analyzes the limitations of existing governance frameworks, including fragmented domestic legislation, uneven law enforcement capacities, limited information exchange, and disparities in economic and institutional development among regional states. The lecture further explores the evolution of regional cooperation through ASEAN initiatives, bilateral agreements, and international legal instruments, highlighting the persistent gap between shared commitments and effective implementation. Against this background, the lecture discusses China’s role and potential contribution to strengthening regional cooperation through legal harmonization, institutional coordination, enhanced border management, technological cooperation and deeper engagement with international mechanisms. By examining both the achievements and limitations of current practices, this lecture seeks to contribute to broader discussions on cultural heritage governance, transnational crime prevention and the development of effective regional regimes within the China-ASEAN framework.