The Problem of Repatriation of Human Remains from the Colonial Era in the Politics of European Countries: The Case of France

The article examines the problem of repatriation of human remains from museum collections of European countries in the context of the decolonization of knowledge and rethinking historical memory. The relevance of the topic is due to the increasing number of demands for the return of cultural treasures from the colonial era stored in European museums, as well as ethical and legal disputes over the public display of human remains. The purpose of the study is to analyze the French legal framework governing the repatriation of human remains and the specifics of its practical implementation. Research methods: comprehensive analysis of French legislation on repatriation; study of public statements by President Emmanuel Macron on the topic; analysis of media materials and scientific publications; critical discourse analysis of official documents and public debates. The results of the study show that the issue of repatriation of human remains remains a complex and controversial phenomenon in the cultural and political life of Europe. On the one hand, there is a tendency to recognize the right of former colonies to return ancestral heritage as an act of historical justice. On the other hand, there are still scientific and institutional arguments against repatriation related to fears of loss of research potential and lack of storage conditions in the countries of origin. Conclusions. The process of repatriation of human remains goes beyond the technical act of transferring property, turning into a deep socio-cultural and political process. It addresses issues of identity, historical truth, and justice, demanding a revision of dominant narratives and approaches to cultural heritage management.

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