Indigenous Repatriation Movements in South America and Their Repercussions on Ethical Discussions on the Respectful Treatment of Human Remains: The Cases of Chile and Argentina

Beginning in the second half of the twentieth century, Indigenous peoples have been asserting their right to decide the future of their ancestors’ human remains and material culture. This global Indigenous social movement has been referred to as the repatriation movement. This report examines its emergence in South America, focusing on the cases of Chile and Argentina. In particular, this research reflects on how Indigenous repatriation activism has fostered contemporary debates on the ethical treatment of Indigenous human remains and materials of cultural significance. From this perspective, it provides a brief overview of the impact of these debates on scientific and museum communities in both countries, demonstrating the centrality of the repatriation movement for opening up spaces to facilitate a greater understanding of Indigenous peoples’ rights and the responsibility of science to redress historical injustices structured by academic practices.