Memory, heritage and activism: three issues shaping the news in France and Europe
In France, a new law on the restitution of cultural property is drawing a great deal of attention, including from China. The text, published in the Official Journal this weekend, is intended to facilitate the return of works looted during colonisation between 1815 and 1972. This law addresses a sensitive issue, because many works of art and cultural items kept in French museums come from former colonised territories. Beijing is following this matter closely and says it attaches “great importance” to this development.
This law represents an important step in the debate on colonial memory and on the place of works acquired under disputed conditions. It is meant to make the procedures simpler for returning certain objects to their country of origin. The issue goes beyond France, as several states have been requesting for years the return of pieces considered stolen or taken under coercion during the colonial period.
Another major moment in France is the commemoration of 10 May, the day of remembrance of the slave trade, slavery and their abolition. In 2026, this date has particular significance, as it also marks the 25th anniversary of the Taubira law. Adopted in 2001, this law recognises the slave trade and slavery as crimes against humanity.
On this occasion, the Minister of the Armed Forces, Sébastien Lecornu, wanted to highlight this anniversary. This commemoration recalls the importance of remembrance work around slavery in French history. It takes place within an official framework, with ceremonies and speeches aimed at keeping alive the memory of this history and its consequences.
Internationally, one of the activists from the “Flotilla for Gaza,” Saif Abu Keshek, has returned to Spain after ten days of detention in Israel. He was one of the last two activists still being held by the Israeli authorities after their arrest off the coast of Greece on 29 April.
This case concerns an activist action linked to Gaza and has taken on an international dimension because of the arrests and detention of the participants. The return of Saif Abu Keshek to Spain marks a new stage in this matter, while attention remains high around the fate of the other activists and the political tensions linked to this initiative.
Overall, today’s news brings together several major themes: the restitution of cultural heritage, the duty of remembrance regarding slavery, and international mobilisations around Gaza. These issues show how history, justice and relations between states continue to have concrete effects in current public debates.