First the seriousness and costs of the effort must be considered. Any individual or institution that has gone through great expense and effort to acquire and maintain valuable cultural items will not be eager to give them up. Securing the goodwill and cooperation of the party currently in possession of the items in question is crucial to any repatriation effort and can eliminate the need for legal battles. The legitimacy and coordination of the repatriation effort are also influential. Any documentation or testimony that can assist in proving the claimant's position will be very helpful.
Many resources exist to aid Indigenous peoples' repatriation campaigns.
Non-governmental organizations, charitable groups, and other Indigenous entities may be sympathetic to repatriation efforts. These groups may provide contacts, publicity, council, or other forms of assistance. Some communities have been successfully pursuing repatriation for many years and have developed mechanisms within their political system to respond to concerns involving culturally sensitive materials. Journalists may be able to provide publicity and help bring public opinion behind the repatriation efforts. The United Nations is taking an increased interest in cultural heritage and in the protection of Indigenous rights.