UNESCO hears global call for Parthenon Sculptures' return; London objects

The Parthenon Sculptures and Greece's long-standing demand for their return and reunification were central to discussions at UNESCO's Intergovernmental Committee meeting in Paris. Greek representatives presented detailed arguments for the repatriation of cultural artifacts to their countries of origin. The Greek side substantiated its claim for the sculptures' restoration to their natural setting on the Acropolis. Representatives from Greece's Permanent Delegation to UNESCO provided national delegations with thorough briefings on the issue's significance. The impact of Greece's arguments was evident as 20 member states of the Committee made positive interventions, openly expressing their support for Greece's request. During the session, representatives from numerous countries emphasized the urgent need for substantial progress on the matter. They encouraged both Greece and the United Kingdom to continue their dialogue, aiming for the sculptures' return and reunification with their original context. However, the United Kingdom reiterated its established position, stating no intention to alter its national legislative framework concerning the sculptures. In a notable intervention, Turkey sided against the British position, asserting that no Ottoman firman (decree) exists to legitimize the possession of the sculptures. The Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Culture, and the Acropolis Museum provided updates on the proceedings.