A black arts market

Article Abstract:

The political changes in Eastern Europe have resulted in an increase of art smuggling, and many of the newly established republics are demanding the return of national treasures now housed outside their borders. The poor economy and the new governments' inability to regulate art sales are the major reasons over 30,000 works have disappeared since the 1989 revolution. Over 10,000 Czechs now make their living as smugglers. The situation is similar in Cambodia. The break-ups of the Soviet Union, Czechoslovakia and Yugoslavia have led to new debates over the rights of cultural property. UNESCO and other organizations have attempted to stem the illegal flow of art without success.

Eastern Europe, Ethical aspects, Art dealers, Art, Smuggling, Europe, Eastern

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Culture under fire

Article Abstract:

Recent conflicts such as the Gulf War in 1991 and the ongoing struggle in the former Yugoslavia point out the hazards to cultural artifacts of modern warfare. The rules established by the Convention for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of an Armed Conflict were followed where possible by the coalition forces fighting Iraq but have been flouted by Serbian irregulars. UNESCO and the Art Restoration for Cultural Heritage group monitors are fighting an uphill battle, frequently endangered themselves, in their efforts to protect monuments, buildings and works of art.

International aspects, Antiquities, Protection and preservation, Yugoslavia, Cultural property, Protection of, Cultural property protection

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Mapping out the future

Article Abstract:

William Wood, the Geographer of the United States, is in charge of analyzing geographical issues for US policymakers. Wood, 35, runs a small office within the State Department which turns out maps and analysis for the Secretary of State's daily briefing. Boundary disputes, environmental dilemmas, ethnic and religious issues and migration are topics evaluated by Wood and his staff.

Officials and employees, Biography, Employment, Geographers, Wood, William, United States. Office of the Geographer

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