The Implementation of Directive 2014/60/EU in the Netherlands
The Implementation of Directive 2014/60/EU in the Netherlands

Summary/Abstract: The Implementation Act for Directive 2014/60/EU on the return of cultural objects was published in the “Netherlands Bulletin of Acts, Orders and Decrees” in June 2015. Even though this new instrument represents a considerable enlargement of the protection of cultural heritage in the EU, its implementation has not led to major changes in Dutch legislation. The implementation of the previous Council Directive 93/7/EEC of 15 March 1993 already resolved the impasse in the Netherlands over a reasonable balance between the interests of original owners and those of innocent purchasers. With the 1992/93 adjustments to Dutch law the most important steps for accepting the 1970 UNESCO Convention were also taken. The Netherlands’ definition of protected works of art is in accordance with the criteria of a cultural object as stated in Article 2(1) of Directive 2014/60/EU. At the same time, facilitating a greater awareness of due diligence and research into provenance is high on the Dutch agenda, as they are considered important aspects in the fight against illicit trafficking in cultural objects.

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