Colonial-era artefacts are more than museum pieces: Hemachandra

Colombo, May 17 (Daily Mirror) - Cultural objects displaced during the colonial period should not be viewed merely as museum possessions, but as part of the living heritage, identity, and historical memory of nations and peoples, Acting Foreign Minister Arun Hemachandra said while addressing the inauguration of the “Whose Law?” Research Conference held in Colombo on 13 May 2026.

The conference brought together legal scholars, historians, provenance researchers, museum professionals, policymakers and international partners to discuss issues surrounding cultural heritage displaced during the colonial era, with particular attention on provenance research, legal and historical inquiry, cultural memory and ethical restitution.

Among those attending the event were Iwan Rutjens, Muneer Mulaffer, Yasantha Kodagoda, Wouter Veraart, Naazima Kamardeen, Sampath Punchihewa, Indika Karunathilake and Darshi Thoradeniya.

In his address, Hemachandra said the gathering was not a routine diplomatic or political engagement, but a significant platform where law, history, culture, memory, justice and diplomacy intersect.

The Acting Foreign Minister said that Sri Lanka’s approach to cultural restitution should remain principled, evidence-based and diplomatic, noting that such efforts should not be framed as confrontations but as opportunities to promote scholarship, mutual understanding, responsible international cooperation and a more honest partnership with history.

Referring to Sri Lanka’s civilisational legacy and his personal connection to Trincomalee, he said heritage exists not only within museums but also in landscapes, coastlines, memories and stories preserved by people.

He further highlighted the importance of provenance research, legal clarity, institutional coordination, public education and international cooperation in strengthening Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage interests.

Concluding his address, Hemachandra said memory should be transformed into method, research into policy and restitution into partnership, while ensuring Sri Lanka continues to serve as a guardian of its civilisational heritage.