The Role of Ethical Codes in the Art Market – Examining Updates to the Unesco International Code of Ethics for Dealers in Cultural Property

This paper examines the role of ethical codes in the art market as a means of strengthening its integrity, with particular focus on UNESCO’s ongoing revision of the International Code of Ethics for Dealers in Cultural Property. It argues that such codes should be grounded in broad consensus and set high standards of conduct, with adherence serving as a mark of professional excellence. The trade in cultural property is shaped by fragmented national laws and international laws, as well as risks such as illicit trafficking, online sales, and AML obligations, making ethical codes an important complement to this legal ecosystem. The article traces the history of the UNESCO code from its roots in the 1970 UNESCO Convention and its adoption in 1999 to the current revision process, which has involved extensive consultations with Member States, market participants, and experts to ensure that the instrument is both ambitious and practically workable. It concludes that the revised code aspires to become an influential instrument for promoting higher standards and encouraging cooperation between art market participants and public authorities

Code (set theory · Code of conduct · Convention · Cultural property · Ethical code · Intellectual property · Property (philosophy · Archaeological Research and Protection · Art History and Market Analysis · Cultural Heritage Management and Preservation