Cultural heritage theft refers to the illegal removal or destruction of artifacts, artworks, and historical sites that hold significant cultural value. This can include items like ancient sculptures, manuscripts, and religious relics, often taken from their original locations without permission. Such actions can lead to the loss of important historical context and cultural identity for communities. The theft of cultural heritage often occurs during conflicts, looting, or through illegal trade networks. Organizations like UNESCO work to combat this issue by promoting the protection of cultural sites and advocating for the return of stolen artifacts to their rightful owners.