Universal Declaration on Archives
The Universal Declaration on Archives was adopted by the 36th Session of the General Conference of UNESCO on 10th November 2011. The Declaration was developed by a special working group of the International Council on Archives and has been endorsed by the ICA as a key pillar of its outreach and advocacy strategy.
The Declaration is an important step in improving understanding and awareness of archives among the general public and key decision-makers. It is a powerful, succinct statement of the relevance of archives in modern society.
THE DECLARATION
- Defines archives to include all recorded decisions, actions and memories in all formats including paper, digital, and audio visual;
- Recognises the uniqueness of archives in the way they provide authentic evidence of human actions;
- Emphasises the key role of archives in ensuring administrative transparency and democratic accountability;
- supporting democracy and human rights, and preserving collective social memory.
- Explains the role of archivists as skilled professionals who care for archives and provide access to them;
- Highlights the key requirements for good archival management.