Bibliographic Information
Title
Code of Ethics
Organization
World Archaeological Congress
Full Date(s) of Adoption and/or Amendment
Adopted 1990
Web Address (URL)
Additional Information
Format
Web page
Scope
International
Region
International
Language
English
Notes
The WAC has adopted several codes of ethics, which are listed here. The Dead Sea Accord, adopted in 2014, discusses ethical considerations of cultural heritage in the event of armed conflict. The Vermilliam Accord on Human Remains, adopted in 1989, addresses ethical responsibilities concerning human remains. The Tamaki Makau-rau Accord on the Display of Human Remains and Sacred Objects, adopted in 2006, recognizes that the display of sacred objects and human remains demands ethical consideration from archaeologists. The Code of Ethics for the Amazon Forest Peoples, adopted in 1994, addresses the vulnerabilities of peoples of the Amazon forest regions that demand additional ethical consideration. The First Code of Ethics, adopted in 1990, lists the ethical responsibilites and principles that members must abide by in their work with indigenous peoples.
Taxonomies
RPA Codes & Standards
- Archaeologist's Responsibility to the Public
- Integrity of Research Methodology
- Procedures for Field Survey or Excavation
CIfA Codes
- Principle 1: Adherence to ethical and responsible behaviour in archaeological affairs
- Principle 2: Responsibility for the conservation of the historic environment
Keywords & Terms
- Accountability
- Adequate and Responsible Reporting, Publication, and Dissemination
- Armed Conflict and Violence
- Burials and Human Remains
- Conservation
- Consultation/Partnership with Affected Groups
- Consultation/Partnership with Indigenous Peoples
- Culturally Significant and/or Sacred Sites, Objects, and Places
- Environmental Impact and Issues
- Equity and Representation; Discrimination and Harassment
- Impact on Communities - Local, Descendant, etc.
- Indigenous, Tribal, Aboriginal Rights
- Informed Consent
- Integrity of Research Methodology and Field Procedures
- International Law
- Local, State, Federal, and Tribal Laws
- Looting, Collecting, and Illicit Trade of Cultural Property
- Management of Cultural Resources, Heritage, History
- Museum, Collection, Curation and Display Standards
- Ownership
- Professional Relationships and Communication
- Public Interest, Collaboration, Education, and Outreach
- Repatriation
- Respect for and Responsibility to Affected Groups