Introduction

This chapter introduces the reader to the foundations of the book and ensuing chapters: the context of the research, the research questions, the methodology applied in investigating the return of Indigenous colonial-era heritage, and the motivation for considering it in light of its human rights dimension. After discussing the recent surge of interest in the return of colonial-era heritage in Europe, and summarizing the existing debate on returning Indigenous heritage, the author proposes to orientate the search for the best method(s) to use today in past examples. At the same time as the book looks at the past for lessons and inspiration, it also highlights the need to take an important step forward in aligning cultural heritage practices, including the repatriation of Indigenous heritage, with contemporary human rights standards. Lastly, key terminology used throughout the book is defined, and the chapter closes by highlighting the structure of the volume, which is divided into four distinct, substantive, parts.