The institution of museums, dedicated to securing cultural goods and important objects from history of humanity, has existed for decades. However, during major historical events, such as wars or colonization, many have constructed collections using seized or dubiously acquired cultural property. These inappropriately collected items are still parts of museum catalogues all over the world, which calls the ethics of their work into question. This research aims to analyze some examples of seized cultural heritage and disputes regarding the ownership of items, while highlighting the importance of their return to cultures, communities or individuals they belong to. Using available literature and scientific works related to this topic, this research presents the theoretical framework of museum work and practices used in the collection of museum objects, and covers the legal framework connected to the shaping of museum collections. The goal of studying this topic is to bring attention to previously seized objects in museum collections, ones which should be returned to their rightful cultures in order to function as identity indicators to their community.