France debates bill to return tens of thousands of looted colonial artworks

French lawmakers will debate a bill on Monday designed to simplify the repatriation process for artworks and artifacts looted during France's colonial era, according to France 24. France currently holds tens of thousands of such items in its possession. The legislation addresses a long-standing international demand for former colonial powers to return cultural property to their countries of origin. This debate reflects broader global pressure on Western museums and governments to acknowledge colonial theft and restore cultural heritage.