(De)colonisation of European museums : five minimum standards for re-energising postcolonial practices

Abstract

A museum should be a place where cultures, dialogue and social relations are enhanced. Given the renewed interest of the public scene on the topic, the author poses the question: Is there a need and a possibility to decolonise ethnographic museums? Should we have common and shared practices? In an attempt to eliminate colonial vestiges in museums, an analysis of literature and practices leads the author to analyse five European ethnographic museums in order to understand their merits and shortcomings. The subjectivity of these institutions and the diversity with which colonisation can be presented makes the proposal of a single generalised solution not preferable. An objective analysis, based on actions and variables drives the author to determine, however, that in order to revitalise museum practices there is a need to create a sharable framework. The design of minimum standards can help museums set clear and measurable goals to achieve a higher level of decolonisation. At the same time giving a role to the visitor as judge of the work of these institutions. Thus, trying to restore both internal and external impetus to the decolonial intent within museums that has been faltering over the years.