The World Archaeological Congress (WAC) is the only representative, fully international organization of practicing archaeologists. Founded in 1986, WAC encourages open dialogue among all people concerned about the past, including scholars from under-represented parts of the world, First Nations people, and descendent communities whose pasts are told by archaeologists.

A wide variety of themes and sessions are proposed for this seventh conference edition, ranging from education, science, interpretation, protection, economic development, and conflict resolution.

The theme "Archaeology as a Target: Preservation and Heritage Identities in Times of Conflict”, jointly led by ICCROM-ATHAR and the University of Vienna, may interest those in the ICCROM network who are personally or professionally engaged with this topic. Within this theme are the following sessions:

• Archaeology, Cultural Heritage and Conflict Resolution: Opportunities and Obstacles
• Blue Shield: Protecting heritage sites in armed conflict and natural disaster

For information on the various themes and sessions, and in order to submit an abstract for an individual contribution (deadline: 31 October), please visit the official conference website.

updated on: 14 September, 2012