Archaeology and the global crisis

[BAJR Host]

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.

This is perhaps a quasi semantic statement, as I too agree to abide to IfA Guidelines without being a member ? like most archaeologists in the UK (at last count) ? I agree the IfA has real powers of disciplinary action ? however, more importantly, to suggest it affects am individuals ability to practice - to be brutally honest? it does not. Would it not be easier for the EAA to ?add? enforceable standards to its role, rather than build a new organisation?

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.

So rather than tell people what to do, it will tell people how to do it. The question remains however about the role of the IfA UK - it becomes on voice among many then?. Each equally represented in a new organisation called the International IfA?

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.

I still hold that this movement of archaeologists is already happening, poles coming to the UK, Irish coming to the UK, UK to Germany, and France?.etc? indeed when I see French and UK employment laws being on a level playing field I will be very happy! I still suggest that the EAA is already in the right place to reform to cope with that.

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.

This is perhaps an initiative that is worth pursuing ? however currently it is not actual action?.. it is discussion. Like this initiative, BAJR Federation went through 9 months of thinking and talking about it, then it was launched (Action 1), and it has now to spend a year seeing how it settles in ? Then and only then, when it has found its feet can it start to act properly? so even the BAJR Fed is not fully active yet either.

I was worried by the end sentance about the best way to contribute and shape the debate is to join the IfA ? it is one way?.. and it may be a good way ? but, it should not be the exclusive way?.as it stands just now. Which is why I am glad that this is being talked about in public on this forum. And I thank you again Paul. (ps are you on commission for new members )