24th September 2009, 04:46 PM
Just a few quick points.
1. The EAA is an association of archaeologists, not an institute of professional practice. So yes, whilst we all agree to abide by the EAA code of conduct, there is no formal mechanism for disciplinary action. The EAA is an institution by which archaeologists in Europe and beyond can discuss research, practice and ways forward, but it does not aim to set standards of itself. On the other hand the IfA is a professional institute with real powers of disciplinary action which affect an individual's ability to practise.
2. There is no suggestion that the International IfA will attempt to "tell others how to act". Rather it will act as a facilitator of concord between national organisations. The UK IfA will be a branch of the International IfA, as also could be the Dutch NVvA and the Institute of Archaeologists of Ireland.
3. Whilst clearly the EU does allow people to practise in other countries, at present there are (as you have pointed out) various practical barriers to doing this - qualifications, experience and language foremost among them. Hopefully the new International IfA will try and even out the playing field.
4. Previous comments on this thread have bemoaned the lack of action... well here is ACTION actually happening. I firmly believe that this will take shape over the coming months and years. The best way to get engaged is to become involved with the activities of the IfA in this regard and contribute to the debate and help to shape it.
I think it is very positive and we all need to engage with the process - there are lots of issues to be sorted out and only by everyone having their say can we hope to sort them out in the best possible way. No doubt there will be an opportunity to discuss this at the next IfA Conference (spring 2010) and that discussion will help take things forward.
I hope this helps.
Paul
1. The EAA is an association of archaeologists, not an institute of professional practice. So yes, whilst we all agree to abide by the EAA code of conduct, there is no formal mechanism for disciplinary action. The EAA is an institution by which archaeologists in Europe and beyond can discuss research, practice and ways forward, but it does not aim to set standards of itself. On the other hand the IfA is a professional institute with real powers of disciplinary action which affect an individual's ability to practise.
2. There is no suggestion that the International IfA will attempt to "tell others how to act". Rather it will act as a facilitator of concord between national organisations. The UK IfA will be a branch of the International IfA, as also could be the Dutch NVvA and the Institute of Archaeologists of Ireland.
3. Whilst clearly the EU does allow people to practise in other countries, at present there are (as you have pointed out) various practical barriers to doing this - qualifications, experience and language foremost among them. Hopefully the new International IfA will try and even out the playing field.
4. Previous comments on this thread have bemoaned the lack of action... well here is ACTION actually happening. I firmly believe that this will take shape over the coming months and years. The best way to get engaged is to become involved with the activities of the IfA in this regard and contribute to the debate and help to shape it.
I think it is very positive and we all need to engage with the process - there are lots of issues to be sorted out and only by everyone having their say can we hope to sort them out in the best possible way. No doubt there will be an opportunity to discuss this at the next IfA Conference (spring 2010) and that discussion will help take things forward.
I hope this helps.
Paul