Dr. Alaa Abdul-Razzaq, a researcher and academic at the Center for Strategic and International Studies at the University of Baghdad, participated in the international virtual conference organized by the Arab Heritage Experts Authority, represented by the Heritage Foundation for Studies and Restoration in Algeria.
The conference was titled “The Impact of Iraqi Antiquities Smuggling on Iraqi Cultural Heritage.” The research paper aimed to investigate the specific impact of smuggling Iraqi antiquities on Iraq’s cultural heritage, tracing the historical stages that witnessed the deliberate destruction of these artifacts, their subsequent smuggling, and their presence in international museums.
The researcher recommended the necessity of returning the stolen artifacts to Iraq, along with providing suitable conditions and high-standard museums in Iraq’s provinces. Additionally, he emphasized the importance of promoting archaeological culture and awareness within the community to create a safe haven for preserving these artifacts as an essential part of the Iraqi identity.