Cultural heritage crime

Cultural property is part of our heritage, history and identity. It needs protecting from criminals.

Trafficking in cultural property is a low-risk, high-profit business for criminals with links to organized crime.

From stolen artwork to historical artefacts, this crime can affect all countries, either as origin, transit or destinations.

There is a lucrative black market in cultural property with strong links to organized crime.

Our specialized officers share their expertise and passion for protecting cultural heritage.

Capture the art, capture the criminals

The Stolen Works of Art database is our main tool to tackle the traffic in cultural property.

Individuals and countries can all do more to protect cultural heritage.

Combined action with partners strengthens our efforts to protect cultural heritage.