Decline in Illicit Artifact Trading Shakes Dark Economies

A new study published in Antiquity challenges the long-held belief that the illicit trade of artifacts is one of the top three most illicit trades in the world. The researchers argue that this claim is unfounded and has led to misdirected policies and harm to communities. The study highlights the lack of reliable data on the value of the illicit trade and emphasizes the need for evidence-based policymaking. The authors call for a shift in public understanding and presentation of the harms caused by artifact looting and trafficking, urging institutions to stop lazily repeating unsubstantiated claims and instead disseminate high-quality data and expert analysis.