Return of Khoisan remains spotlights colonial abuses
The repatriation of 63 Khoisan remains from the University of Glasgow to South Africa has reignited discussions on the violent legacy of European colonialism and the misuse of indigenous bodies in scientific research. The remains, taken between 1868 and 1924 for race-based studies, were buried in a ceremony on March 23 attended by President Cyril Ramaphosa.
The Khoisan, including the San hunter-gatherers and Khoikhoi pastoralists, are among the world’s oldest human populations. For centuries, they lived across southern Africa, particularly in the Kalahari Basin, maintaining distinct social and economic systems. These were disrupted by European settlement from the mid-17th century, which dispossessed communities of land, livestock, and resources. San groups were often violently suppressed, while Khoikhoi faced forced labor conditions.
During the 18th and 19th centuries, European scientists classified the Khoisan as “primitive” and at times as a “missing link” between humans and animals, justifying the collection of their remains for research. Experts say the return of 63 individuals is only a small portion of remains still held abroad.
Modern Khoisan communities are seeking to reclaim cultural heritage and formal recognition as South Africa’s “first peoples,” a move that could affect land rights, political representation, and economic access. Community members emphasize that the historical violence against their ancestors has been largely hidden from public discussion and education.
The repatriation is seen as a step toward acknowledging colonial injustices, while also highlighting ongoing efforts to preserve Khoisan identities and confront the scientific exploitation of indigenous populations.
