Museums hide mummies from public view due to lack of 'consent' from ancient Egyptians or their descendants

Two museums in Scotland have removed ancient Egyptian mummies from public view due to concerns that they were displayed without the consent of the deceased individuals or their descendants. The decision was made by Glasgow Life, which manages the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, one of several museums in Glasgow that have changed their policies on displaying human remains.

According to a spokesperson for Glasgow Life, the removal of human remains from display is in line with contemporary museum practice and the revised Code of Ethics published by the International Council of Museums in June 2026. The code states that museums should uphold the inherent dignity of human remains and promote respect for their significance. The spokesperson noted that the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Afrikan Reparations 2025 report also raises ethical concerns about the display of ancient Egyptian human remains.

The Hunterian, another museum in Glasgow, has taken a slightly different approach. While the elaborate sarcophagus of Lady Shep-En-Hor will remain on display, her mummified remains will be covered going forward. The museum is considering its holdings of archaeological and anatomical human remains and is committed to returning items to their communities and nations of origin.

The decisions by the two museums follow a revision to the International Council of Museums' Code of Ethics, which emphasizes the importance of collaboration with descendants or communities from which the remains originate. However, experts note that the guidelines can be interpreted differently by institutions, and there is no one fixed outcome.

The moves by the Glasgow museums raise questions about the ownership and display of artifacts acquired from other countries, particularly during periods of Western colonial rule. They also highlight the ongoing debate about the treatment of human remains in museums and the need for institutions to balance their cultural and educational responsibilities with respect for the dignity of the individuals whose remains they hold.