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Centre for the Ethics of Cultural Heritage

A collaborative research centre, involving academics and practitioners from the Departments of Archaeology, Anthropology, Philosophy and Law.
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Welcome to the Centre for the Ethics of Cultural Heritage

The Centre for the Ethics of Cultural Heritage (CECH) focuses upon ethical debates surrounding cultural heritage, in particular relations with indigenous peoples.

In particular, CECH looks at relations with indigenous peoples; professional standards and responsibilities; ethical codes; notions of value; concepts of stewardship and custodianship; the meaning and moral implications of ‘cultural heritage'; who ‘owns' the past or the interpretation of it; roles and responsibilities of museums; the trade in antiquities; opportunities and problems associated with tourism; and the treatment of human remains (including repatriation).
About CECH
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UNESCO Chair on Archaeological Ethics and Practice in Cultural Heritage

Durham University's UNESCO Chair on Archaeological Ethics and Practice in Cultural Heritage was awarded in 2014 and expands the work of CECH. It is held by Prof Robin Coningham in the Department of Archaeology, and explores issues of ethics and practice relating to heritage and archaeology.

Explore the UNESCO Chair