The World Archaeological Congress has called upon UNESCO to declare a World Archaeology Day.

Professor Smith, President of the World Archaeological Congress, said

“The idea of a World Archaeology Day was proposed by colleagues from Africa, an area of the world where cultural heritage is under dire threat from looting, tourism and government neglect”

A World Archaeology Day would follow on from previous UNESCO declarations of an International Museum Day and a World Tourism Day.

Professor Bayo Folorunso, of Nigeria, the Vice-President of the World Archaeological Congress, said

“A day that is devoted to appreciation of the worth of archaeology will enhance public understanding of the value of archaeology as a tool for unearthing our human past, and this will lead to greater protection of cultural heritage across the globe”

For further information contact: Professor Claire Smith (claire.smith@flinders.edu.au) or Professor Bayo Folorunso (cafoloso@hotmail.com)

Background

The World Archaeological Congress (WAC) is a non-governmental, not-for-profit organization and is the only elected international body of practising archaeologists. WAC holds an international congress every four years to promote the exchange of the results of archaeological research; professional training and public education for disadvantaged nations, groups and communities; the empowerment and betterment of Indigenous groups and First Nations peoples; and the conservation of archaeological sites.

The Sixth World Archaeological Congress (WAC-6) was held from 29th June-4th July at the University College Dublin. This was the first World Archaeological Congress to be held in Ireland. It was attended by over 1,800 archaeologists, native peoples and international scholars from 74 nations. Motions from the Plenary session of the Congress were considered by subsequent meetings of the World Archaeological Congress Council and Executive.

The Congress Patron for WAC-6 was President Mary McAleese. Previous Congress Patrons include Harriet Mayor Fulbright, Prince Charles and Nelson Mandela.