Terms of Reference
The following Specific Terms of Reference for the Expert Group against theft, trafficking and tampering (EGATTT) supplement the General Terms of Reference for Expert Groups established by the ICA Programme Commission.
Establishment
EGATTT was established by the ICA Executive Board at the meeting in Yaoundé in November 2018. The Executive Board approved the appointment of the Chair in November 2018, as recommended by the Programme Commission.
Purpose and objectives
EGATTT provides a forum for high-level discussion and expert advice on the fight against theft, trafficking and tampering of archives. Its work may include managing projects, the creation of tools and resources to support the work of PCOM, ICA members and the wider archives and records management network. EGATTT may also provide advice or assistance to the elected officers and the Secretary General on related issues. EGATTT also liaises on behalf of the ICA with external partners and groups working on similar issues and projects. EGATTT works closely with the Expert group on Legal Matters (EGLM) and the Expert Group on Shared Archival Heritage (EGSAH).
EGATTT will undertake projects to support on matters related to:
- Publish recommendations on prevention and security
- Organize training and education
- Sensitize the public, institutions and professionals
- Cooperate with others professional associations
- Cooperate with Interpol and the World Customs Organization
- Work to ensure the creation of and maintenance of a “red list” of stolen documents
- Contribute to improving laws and regulations on the matter
- Contribute to the fight against tampering with documents
- Other relevant matters identified by the Group
Planning and reporting
EGATTT carries out a workplan that will be revised and updated every year for review and approval by PCOM. The Expert Group against theft, trafficking and tampering prepare a written report on progress and activities for the members of PCOM, to be tabled at the meetings of the PCOM. In consultation with PCOM, the Expert Group may also appoint individuals to represent ICA or set up working groups to focus on particular areas where more specialised expertise is required. Such individuals and groups will have specific mandates and deadlines and report to the Chair of EGATTT and, therefore indirectly, to PCOM.
Budget
The Expert Group against thefts, trafficking and tampering will apply for funds for its projects and submit a budget as required.
Membership
Criteria for membership is recent and extensive experience ( “Recent and extensive” experience means at least 2 years of practical experience or research in one or more of the areas itemised above as being in the remit of the expert group). Candidates for membership must submit a brief biography and a statement of interest outlining their proposed contributions to the Group. Membership in the EGATTT will be approved by the Programme Commission. All members are expected to commit to working on a practical project or to take responsibility for maintaining/providing some aspect of the Group’s goals.
A call for EGATTT membership will be made at ICA annual meetings, as required, to fill vacancies and ensure membership renewal. Members who do not contribute to the group for a period of one year may have their membership revoked.
Contact email address: egattt@ica.org
Meetings and communication
Meetings will take place at least twice annually online and, according to the availability of members, when possible, on the occasion of the ICA annual conference.
Copyright of Products
Products, tools and publications developed and drafted by EGATTT members as part of the workplan will be the intellectual property of ICA to disseminate to members in consultation with EGATTT and PCOM according to ICA’s strategic goals but primarily as part of its capacity building mission.
Authored: October 2018/January 2019