In Scotland, the mummy was hidden from the public, respecting the right of the deceased to privacy

The Hunterian Museum in Glasgow covered with cloth the mummified remains of the Egyptian Lady Shep-en-Hore, which were exhibited for more than 200 years. The decision was explained by ethical considerations and the need to limit the public display of human remains.

"The Hunterian Museum is of the opinion that Lady Shep-en-Hore deserves respect and the right to privacy after her death," the statement said.

The 2,000-year-old remains were covered with Tyvek protective material in August 2025. The museum explained that the decision was made after a review of the policy of displaying human remains brought from outside the UK. The management of the institution also consulted with Egyptologists and other specialists.

The museum said it remained committed to its mission of acquainting visitors, students and staff with the role of ancient Egyptian culture in world history.

The museum's decision, in turn, drew criticism. Robert Tombs, professor emeritus of French history at Cambridge University, called it "outrageous" and said the practice made the past "invisible" to the general public.

“Museums are now seeking to become public spaces: they believe that their task is not to educate the public, but to change the world. Such respect for the “rights of the ancients” actually means that museums give up their educational function.

In his opinion, museums should first of all educate visitors, and the opportunity to see the mummy can awaken children’s interest in history.

Glasgow Life, which is responsible for Glasgow’s cultural institutions, has ordered the removal of Egyptian human remains from the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. This decision was also explained by the lack of documented consent of the deceased to demonstrate their remains.

In June 2026, the International Council of Museums (ICOM) adopted an updated code of ethics for museums. The document establishes general principles for the work of museum institutions, including the preservation of cultural heritage, the management of collections and the treatment of human remains. In particular, the Code requires that the cultural and spiritual significance of the remains be taken into account and, if necessary, consider restricting their display or returning to their country of origin.

The update was the first revision of the code since 2004. Its preparation lasted several years and included consultations with museum specialists and specialized organizations from different countries.