On 13 December, the Commission adopted the EU Action Plan against trafficking in cultural goods. The Action Plan aims to provide a clear, comprehensive and effective framework for the EU's contribution to the fight against the trafficking of cultural goods in the years 2023-2025. The action plan focuses on four strategic objectives. Firstly, it proposes how to improve the prevention and detection of crimes by market participants and cultural heritage institutions. Secondly, it lists actions aiming at strengthening law enforcement and judicial capabilities. Thirdly, it proposes how to boost international cooperation in combating illicit trade. And finally, it announces measures to raise awareness amongst other key stakeholders to protect cultural goods from crime.
We are delighted to share that our PITCHER Project has also been mentioned as an example on page 16! One of the commission’s priorities is to “Increase the protection of cultural goods from trafficking by maximising stakeholder support”, carrying out awareness-raising activities within a different range of actors. PITCHER is mentioned as one of these tools!
“In order to reach a wider audience, the Commission supports the creation of teaching material on the protection of cultural heritage. For example through PITCHER (Preventing Illicit Trafficking of Cultural Heritage: Educational Resources).”
Access the document here: https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A52022DC0800