Museum collections – whether archaeological or scientific – often contain numerous human remains of various kinds: bones, anatomical preparations, relics, or even mummies. Collected over the centuries under conditions that are sometimes unknown, violent, or that no longer meet today’s standards, these remains are now the object of much debate. Their provenance, the circumstances of their appropriation, their background, their use in exhibitions, and their eventual return to their community of origin are all points that need to be clarified.
This round table discussion brings together artists, specialists, and committed individuals working on the issue of the restitution of human remains in Switzerland. Echoing the show The Ghosts Are Returning by GROUP50:50 as part of the exhibition Memories. Geneva in the Colonial World, which runs at MEG until 5 January 2025, it will provide an opportunity to reflect on the complex and important issues surrounding this theme, and to consider possible contemporary perspectives.

Moderator:
Taline Garibian (scientific associate at Maison de l’histoire, UNIGE)

Speakers:
- Carine Ayélé Durand (Director of MEG)
- Anne Mayor (Director of ARCAN, UNIGE)
- Patrick Mudekereza (co-dramaturg of Le Retour des Fantômes, writer and exhibition curator)
- Deneth Piumakshi Veda Arachchige (multidisciplinary artist)