Heritage crimes, including illicit excavation, looting, and the destruction of archaeological sites, have lasting repercussions that reach beyond physical damage. They erode vital links to humanity’s past and deprive future generations of cultural knowledge. Archaeologists, heritage professionals, and the wider scientific community—dedicated to preserving and understanding cultural heritage—are among the most deeply affected by these crimes. Such damage compromises scientific research, leading to permanent loss of knowledge and assaulting directly the work of those who safeguard these sites. Yet, despite the significant pecuniary and non-pecuniary damage suffered by heritage professionals, legal frameworks often emphasize punishing offenders over recognizing and compensating victims, leaving the scientific community’s interests unaddressed.
This article examines the impact of heritage crimes on archaeologists and heritage professionals, advocating for more attentive approach to their potential formal recognition as victims within criminal justice proceedings. Drawing on survey data, case law, and expert interviews, it highlights the urgent need for legal systems to acknowledge the multifaceted harm inflicted by these crimes. By addressing this oversight, the article aims to support a more comprehensive approach to heritage protection, reinforcing cultural heritage as a public good essential to collective memory and identity.
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