The Peruvian Congress has set a Congressional Hearing on November 9, 2024, to discuss the Nazca mummies. This hearing will be a “Public Audience of the Cultural Commission and Cultural Patrimony of the Congress of the Republic…the theme of this public audience is the ‘mummies’ found in the jurisdiction of Nazca.”
In the time I’ve been assisting in the study of the Nazca mummies, the concern of how to legally, ethically and scientifically study the specimens has been my primary concern. Without the proper legal authority and permission, any removal of the specimens would be against the laws of Peru. Not to mention, very likely against the laws, treaties and customs of any nation to which they were moved for study. I will be providing testimony at the hearing about the legal challenges, and potential solutions, for further study of the specimens.
The unique morphology of the mummies present many questions about their nature, authenticity, and origin that can surely be resolved though scientific testing of the specimens. The study of the Nazca mummies to date has been controversial, especially in regard to the authenticity and handling of the remains. These are valid concerns and should be addressed with transparent, rigorous, and ethical research. A collaborative approach with Peruvian experts, international scientists, and indigenous communities can ensure that all research is done with respect to scientific integrity and cultural sensitivity.
Further, I am of the opinion that there is value in establishing an international multidisciplinary team made up of the best scientists and experts from Peru, and the rest of the world, to study these specimens collaboratively, working with the Peruvian Ministry of Culture. This joint study would be important for strengthening international scientific relations and allow the best experts in their fields to provide support and knowledge on these unique discoveries.