Ancestors in Collections? Intersecting Perspectives on Scientific Challenges and Contemporary Responsibilities

This international conference will address the ethical, legal, scientific, cultural and political questions raised by human remains in heritage collections. 3-4 November 2026, MEG Auditorium.

Co-organised by the Musée d'ethnographie de Genève - MEG, the Museum Commission of the Swiss Anthropological Association, ARCAN Laboratory and Art-Law Centre at the University of Geneva, this international interdisciplinary conference will address the ethical, legal, scientific, cultural and political questions raised by human remains in museum, university, medical and heritage collections.
The conference will bring together researchers, museum professionals, representatives of source communities, artists and policymakers to discuss provenance, terminology, care, display, restitution, alternatives when return is not possible, and institutional responsibilities.