Ethics and Excavation in Egypt: An Archaeological and Repatriation Study from an African Perspective

This study addresses ethical dilemmas in archaeological excavations and repatriation practices within Egypt's cultural heritage sector. This study employs a qualitative approach, utilising semi-structured interviews with archaeologists, community leaders, and government officials to explore perceptions and experiences related to ethical archaeological practices. Data analysis is conducted through thematic coding to identify recurring themes and patterns in responses. The research reveals that the implementation of ethical guidelines varies significantly across different stakeholders, particularly between academic researchers and local communities. This variation influences the direction and proportion of community engagement efforts in repatriation processes. Findings suggest a need for more harmonized approaches to balancing archaeological interests with community rights, highlighting the importance of stakeholder collaboration in navigating ethical challenges. Recommendations include developing culturally sensitive training programmes for archaeologists and establishing clearer guidelines for repatriation procedures that prioritise local cultural values and rights.