Abstract:
Currently, illicit trafficking of cultural heritage became severe problem that diminishs the country‟s cultural heritages in general and ecclesiastical treasures in particular. In this regard, the districts of Ankobär and Mänz in North Šäwa Zone of Amhra National Regional State are victim of this problem. Therefore, this thesis intended to investigate the main cause of illicit trafficking of cultural heritage, the actors in illicit trafficking of cultural heritage and identify which types of cultural heritages were vulnerable to illicit trafficking. It also aims to examine the role of institutions (secular and religious) and the community to combat illicit trafficking of cultural heritage. The thesis depends on primary and secondary sources. While the primary sources are acquired from heritage institutions and justice organizations through document analysis and interviews, the secondary sources are obtained from the libraries and public archives. Generally, this thesis has brought to light on the thechallenges of illicit trafficking of cultural heritage and recommendations for the better preservation of movable cultural heritages.
