Ethical Quandaries in Archaeological Excavations and Repatriation Policy: An Egyptian Perspective

Archaeological excavations in Egypt have been a contentious issue for decades, with debates surrounding the ethical treatment of artifacts and sites. A qualitative approach was used to explore perspectives from Egyptian scholars, museum curators, and archaeological field directors. The analysis reveals a significant tension between preserving historical sites for research purposes versus repatriating artifacts to their countries of origin. While Egypt maintains strong cultural ties with its heritage, there is also an increasing recognition of the importance of international agreements in managing these resources ethically. Policy recommendations include developing clearer guidelines on artifact classification and creating more transparent procedures for repatriation decisions.