International Trafficking in Archaeological Heritage: The Chilean Case in the Latin American Context

Amid growing global concern over the illegal trafficking in cultural property, Latin American countries display significant disparities in heritage legislation and protection. This essay outlines how objects are illegally acquired—primarily through looting of archaeological sites—and transferred to the international market. It identifies an increase in trafficked archaeological collections to the United States in recent decades, underscoring the need for stricter measures to protect the region’s cultural heritage. The article also explores cultural heritage as a concept. It distinguishes between different types of property restituted to Latin American countries. Within this context, the article focuses on northern Chile, where inadequate legislation and international cooperation leave archaeological sites vulnerable to development projects and events such as the Dakar Rally. The author advocates collaborative efforts among institutions, the local population, and international organizations.