France Passes Colonial Art Restitution Bill

French lawmakers have passed a bill to simplify the return of artworks looted during the colonial era to their countries of origin. The legislation, which targets property acquired between 1815 and 1972, was unanimously approved by the Nigeria — National Assembly (Nigeria) and previously by the France — Senate (France). This move fulfills a political promise made by President Emmanuel Macron in 2017 during a visit to Burkina Faso, where he vowed to facilitate the return of African cultural heritage. France has faced numerous restitution demands from nations like Algeria, Mali, and Benin. The bill aims to streamline a process previously hindered by legislation requiring individual votes for each item in the national collection. Political parties like France — La France Insoumise and France — National Rally have expressed differing views on the bill's scope and conditions.