Trafficking Culture

Trafficking Culture is a research consortium that produces evidence-based research into the contemporary global trade in looted cultural objects.
Our researchers, based at Maastricht University, Te Herenga Waka – Victoria University of Wellington, and University of Glasgow, combine criminological and archaeological expertise. Our work is geographically diverse and interdisciplinary.
By conducting innovative quantitative and qualitative research we have established a body of reliable evidence that supports the formulation of effective cultural heritage protection policy. We are committed to raising awareness about these issues through social media, on-line education, and professional training.
Our book is available now: Trafficking Culture: New Directions in Researching the Global Market in Illicit Antiquities
Recent News

Bērziņa took part in “la vente illégale sur le marché de l’art” conference organised by Anthemis.
13 Nov 2023
Diāna Bērziņa was part on an expert panel focusing on monitoring compliance with art market...

Yates gave a presentation at “The Market for Latin American Antiquities” conference organised by co-organized by the Centro Latinoamericano-Suizo de la Universidad de San Gallen, the Museum der Kulturen Basel and Musée d’ethnographie Neuchâtel
13 Nov 2023
On 2 November Dr Donna Yates gave a presentation titled “Crime in Collections: Patterns,...

Yates speaking at “Understanding Written Artefacts” conference
27 Sep 2023
Dr Donna Yates will give a talk at...
Site Updates

Ecuadorian Artefacts Seized in Miami in 1986
The trafficker, who planned on buying weapons with the proceeds from sale of the artefacts, was...

Maya Sculpture Seized in Brooklyn in 1999
Large Ancient Maya pieced seized from a Brooklyn residential garage...

Naranjo Stela 30
Stolen Maya sculpture seized by US Authorities when a crate carrying it broke open in the port of...