Legal Issues Arising From the Commercialization of Cultural Heritage

Abstract

Cultural heritage and natural resources belonging to indigenous people and local communities may constitute significant contribution for them. However, commodification of cultural heritage has both positive and negative impacts. Appropriation, loss of culture, pseudo-culture, loss of the authenticity of the culture, exclusion of the heritage owners to get benefits and economic gains, commodification of the culture and loss of identity of indigenous communities are some of the problematic issues. However, concerns on responsibility, regulations of trade in relation with cultural heritage, sustainable development, preservation of culture, conservation of cultural and natural heritage raised by the world community in different levels (such as academician, lawyers, nongovernmental organizations, etc.) create opportunity to find solutions for reconciliation between the culture and commerce.