Custodians of Controversy: Navigating Stewardship Challenges With Non-Consensual Anatomized Human Skeletonized...

South Africa, like many countries, holds collections of human skeletonized individuals historically acquired through anatomical dissection programs. This paper examines non-consensual anatomized and unclaimed (NCAU) state-directed skeletonized individuals, whose presence in collections pose significant legal, ethical, and professional challenges. Although the National Health Act (2003) outlines procedures for body donation, the inclusion of unclaimed and destitute persons obtained without consent raises ethical concerns. As curators and custodians, a perspective is provided, assessing the legal and ethical implications of retaining NCAU skeletonized individuals and highlighting inconsistencies between South African regulations and international standards that prioritize informed consent and dignity-in-death. The complexities surrounding the retention, use, or disposition of these decedent bodies, and parts thereof, are discussed, offering recommendations for institutional decision-making to navigate these complexities. A structured and multidisciplinary approach is provided we advocate for transparent and ethically responsible stewardship of NCAU collections. Furthermore, the pressure placed on curators is noted, who face potential personal and professional repercussions, and emphasizes the need for institutional support, training, and resources to guide ethical management and facilitate informed decision-making of these sensitive collections.