Behind the Scenes at the WWII Restitution Symposium

On September 12th, 2024, the Cultural Heritage Agency of the Netherlands (RCE) hosted a remarkable international symposium on the future of WWII Restitution Policies. It was an event where experts, historians, and cultural leaders gathered to explore vital issues around provenance research and restitution, and I had the honor of working with a fantastic team to help make it happen.

As part of the organizing committee and floor management, my role was to ensure that everything ran smoothly, from the technical setup to the participants’ experience. Together with my incredible colleagues at the RCE, we approached this challenge with excitement and dedication. The symposium was more than just an opportunity to witness meaningful discussions; it was a chance to showcase our teamwork, professionalism, and our collective passion for cultural heritage.

It was indeed a day of collaboration and connection. Working behind the scenes at such an event is always special, but this day was particularly memorable because of the synergy between everyone involved. From the moment the first guests arrived and settled in with their coffee to the final toast at the closing reception, there was a palpable sense of shared purpose.

The energy in the room was electric as the speakers, including Dr. Wesley A. Fisher, Prof. Dr. Rudi Ekkart, and Robert Edsel, discussed the complexities and future of restitution policies. The entire program, from panel discussions on "heirless" art to talks on a supranational restitution committee, was a reminder of why we do what we do. The event was skillfully guided by an amazing host, Siebe Weide, whose expertise and presence added an extra layer of professionalism and warmth to the day’s proceedings.

The musical interludes by The Klezmer Society added a poignant cultural element, connecting the emotional weight of the symposium’s themes with the deep-rooted heritage of those impacted by the events of WWII. Their performances served as a reflective moment for all in attendance, grounding the conversations in something deeply human.

What truly stood out to me was the seamless way our team worked together. Everyone had their role, and we coordinated effortlessly to support the speakers, manage logistics, and ensure the attendees had a comfortable and enriching experience.

One of the greatest joys of my job is the opportunity to collaborate with such inspiring colleagues. Whether it was handling last-minute technical glitches or managing the flow of the day’s events, I was constantly reminded of how lucky I am to work alongside such dedicated professionals. Our team at the RCE is a wonderful blend of passion, expertise, and genuine care for the subject matter. It’s this shared love for cultural heritage that made the day so fulfilling.

Seeing the symposium unfold successfully, with thought-provoking discussions and connections being made, was the highlight of the day. But it wasn’t just the event that was rewarding—it was the journey of organizing it with such a talented team. We didn’t just work to make the day unforgettable for the attendees; in doing so, we created a meaningful experience for ourselves.

To end the day, Yael van der Wouden delivered a moving closing speech, reflecting on the lasting impact of the day’s discussions and reminding us of the importance of continuing this work for future generations. Her words resonated deeply with everyone present, offering a sense of hope and responsibility as we look to the future of provenance research and restitution.

As the day concluded with drinks and reflections, I felt a deep sense of pride. The team had not only contributed to the ongoing conversation about the future of WWII restitution policies, but left the event having also strengthened our bonds as a team. It’s events like these that remind me why I love what I do, and why working with people who share that same passion makes all the difference.

To everyone who participated and made this symposium such a success, thank you. It was a day that will stay with us all, not just for the discussions had, but for the connections made, both professionally and personally.