The Return of Mexican Cultural Assets from Germany. Rescuing an Idea

The recovery of archaeological artifacts illegally sold abroad must be undertaken on considerations other than existing legal instruments if this objective is to be achieved. Adolfo Ayuso explains how Mexico has set precedents in Germany for the detection and return of archeological artifacts by capitalizing on the following factors: effective partnership among different national and international institutions; the innovation of shared values principled upon the equality of States in international law; and the effective and efficient participation of a legal advisor undertaking the role of mediator between political actors and cultures. Finally, he explains why, in his view, the recovery of archeological artifacts constitutes a foreign policy instrument that strengthens Mexico’s position in the international community.