The ICA Communications team is pleased to announce the release of a new member-authored blog on Archives in Practice, continuing its commitment to highlighting the voices and expertise of International Council on Archives members worldwide.
We are delighted to feature the latest contribution:
“Why the ICA Human Rights Principles Still Matter in 2026”
Prepared by Cécile Chemin, this article reflects on the continuing relevance of the 2016 ICA Basic Principles on the Role of Archivists and Records Managers in Support of Human Rights.
The blog explores how the Principles continue to provide a practical and ethical framework for archival practice, particularly in relation to accountability, authenticity, access to records, and the protection of human rights. It considers how these foundations remain critical in the context of rapid technological change, political pressure, and evolving forms of record creation and preservation.
The contribution also highlights key areas for reflection, including professional responsibility under conditions of risk and uncertainty, the importance of supporting those safeguarding evidence in diverse environments, and the need to strengthen trust and openness between institutions and communities.
This article underscores the continued importance of these Principles as a living framework that supports archivists, records managers, and wider communities in defending the right to truth and the integrity of documentary evidence.
We invite you to read the full contribution and explore why these Principles remain central to archival practice today.
If you missed it, you can also explore previous member-authored article, “The First Tuesday Talks: 2021–2026”.
For any questions or if you are interested in contributing to Archives in Practice, please contact us at communications@ica.org.
