Polish MP Condemns Closure of Department of Restitution of Cultural Goods, Alleges Favoring German Interests
Arkadiusz Mularczyk, a Member of Parliament from the Law and Justice Party, has spoken out against the recent closure of the Department of Restitution of Cultural Goods. Mularczyk criticizes the move under Donald Tusk’s government, claiming it serves German interests by eliminating a crucial tool in Poland’s historical policy.
Impact on Polish Historical Policy
Mularczyk highlights the department’s role in recovering cultural artifacts stolen during World War II, particularly those taken by Germany. He stresses the importance of this work in challenging auction houses and collaborating internationally to reclaim Poland’s lost treasures. The closure, according to Mularczyk, not only hampers restitution processes but also aids international art dealers and could impede the recovery of stolen artifacts from other nations like Russia, weakening Poland’s standing in cultural restitution.
Calling for transparency from the government, Mularczyk emphasizes the need for a dedicated institution to safeguard Poland’s historical and cultural interests. Without such support, the recovery of stolen cultural properties is at risk, posing a significant threat to Poland’s heritage.