On March 26, 2025, Germany’s federal government, the states, and the leading municipal associations signed [3] an administrative agreement [4] creating a new arbitral tribunal for Nazi-looted art. The agreement states the foundation for transforming the former Advisory Commission into a legally binding dispute-resolution body and strengthens Germany’s implementation of the Washington Principles [5].

Beginning December 1, 2025, [6] victims of Nazi persecution and their heirs may unilaterally initiate proceedings before the tribunal, provided the cultural heritage institution has issued a standing offer or agrees to arbitrate. The tribunal’s decisions will be binding.

Foundational documents, including procedural rules [7] and arbitration rules [8] are publicly available on the tribunal’s official website.