Interview on the Exhibition and Handling of Human Remains in Museums: Professional and Public Perspectives

This interview aims to gather technical opinions, practical experiences, and ethical stances on the exhibition, conservation, and handling of human remains in Cuban museums. The survey is divided into two sections: one directed at professionals in the scientific and museum field, and another directed at the public and community representatives. The goal is to understand current practices, ethical implications, and expectations from both specialists and the community at large.

Bu'aan abbaa qofaaf

Please indicate your age.

Please indicate your educational level.

Please indicate the institution you belong to.

Please indicate your religion.

Could you describe your role and experience regarding collections that include human remains?

In your professional practice, what protocols or regulations do you follow for the handling, conservation, and exhibition of human remains? (e.g. ICOM Code of Ethics, national legislation, internal regulations)

In your experience, what role do or should the communities of origin or their descendants play in decisions about the exhibition of human remains?

Looking to the future, what priority recommendations would you propose for creating a guide of ethical best practices in Cuba regarding the exhibition of human skeletal remains?

Do you believe there is a misunderstanding or cultural undervaluation of these types of assets in museums? What do you consider to be the main prejudices or misunderstandings based on your experience?

Do you think the public visits these exhibitions intending to learn and understand, or do they seek to be impacted or provoke an emotional response?

Do you think society will be willing to accept that in the future, we ourselves could be exhibited in museums as human remains?

Would you like to add any other topic or additional reflection?

In your opinion, do museums in Cuba adequately handle the issue of the exhibition of human remains? What aspects could be improved?