The Dutch government has returned 288 stolen artifacts, including weapons, coins, and jewelry, to Indonesia, acknowledging the looting and pillaging that occurred during the colonial period. This marks the second repatriation since 2020, following recommendations from the Colonial Collections Committee. Notable items include Hindu-Buddhist sculptures and items taken from Balinese kingdoms after a 1906 war. Critics worry about how poorer countries will care for their returned artifacts, but the National Museum of World Cultures director general emphasizes that the rightful owners should decide. Additional repatriation requests from Nigeria, Sri Lanka, India, and Indonesia are being considered. (Word count: 102)
https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/the-netherlands-returned-288-stolen-artifacts-to-indonesia-180985137/