We invite you to join us at the III Congress of Archivists – “Digital Archive EXPO (DA-EXPO)”, which will take place from 8 to 12 June 2026 in Astana, Republic of Kazakhstan. The Congress is organised by the Archive of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, and is now open for applications to participate.
Bringing together archival professionals, technology experts, researchers, educators, and representatives of public institutions, the Congress serves as an international platform for professional dialogue on the preservation and development of documentary heritage, with a strong focus on digital transformation, innovation, and the use of artificial intelligence in archives.
KEY INFORMATION
- Deadline to apply: 1 March 2026 (23:59:59 Astana time, UTC +5)
About the Congress
Since 2022, the Archive of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan has organised the biennial Congress of Archivists as an international platform for professional exchange and dialogue on current and emerging issues in archival science and practice.
The Congress brings together archival professionals, technology experts, researchers, educators, and policy-makers to explore innovative approaches to the preservation, accessibility, and societal role of documentary heritage.
The 2026 edition will be delivered in a combined format, integrating:
- an exhibition space (DA-EXPO) focused on practical demonstrations of advanced digital and AI-based solutions for archival work; and
- a programme of thematic sessions dedicated to professional dialogue, knowledge-sharing, and strategic reflection on the future of archives.
Exhibition Pavilion: DA-EXPO
The DA-EXPO Exhibition Pavilion will provide participants with hands-on opportunities to explore and test cutting-edge IT solutions, including:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) products and services for archival description, access, and preservation
- Digital tools supporting innovative archival workflows and services
Session Programme
The sessional programme will address the following key thematic areas:
I. Archives and AI: tools, ethics, and strategies for the future
- National strategies for AI implementation in archives
- Applications of AI in archival science
- Ethical challenges and responsibilities related to AI use
II. Innovative archival ecosystems: collaboration, infrastructure, and new formats
- National digital archives and integration with museums, libraries, and educational platforms
- New formats for presenting archival information, including Virtual and Augmented Reality, interactive exhibitions, and gamification
- Blockchain and other technologies for ensuring the authenticity of digital archives
- International cooperation, joint projects, and technology exchange
III. Archives facing global challenges: sustainability and security
- Digital preservation and data migration strategies in rapidly evolving technological environments
- Addressing information warfare, disinformation, and cyber threats
- Green archives and environmental responsibility
IV. The archival future: new competencies and leadership
- New educational standards and training programmes for archivists
- Skills development in data management, project management, and communication
- Professional networks and leadership in the archival field
- Supporting a new generation of archivists
V. Archives for society
- Archives reflecting the diversity of society
- Participatory and community-based archival initiatives
- The role of archives in restoring historical justice
Session types
- Panel discussions
- Laboratory sessions
- Round tables
- Poster sessions
- Workshops
- Seminars
Who Should Participate
Participation and partnership opportunities are open to representatives from:
- Archival organisations: managers and staff of archival services and institutions
- IT sector and patrons: developers, digital and AI specialists, and technology partners
- Science and education: universities, researchers, students, and postgraduate candidates
- Public sector: government bodies and public institutions
- Related heritage institutions: museums, libraries, and allied organisations
How to Apply
- Applications for participation must be submitted via the online form
- Application deadline: 1 March 2026 (23:59:59 Astana time, UTC +5)
- Notification of acceptance: by 29 March 2026
Participation in the Congress is free of charge. Travel, accommodation, and daily expenses must be covered by participants or their sending organisations.
Please note: the Organising Committee reserves the right to assign accepted applications to a category different from that originally proposed.
About the Organiser
The Archive of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan is the largest archival institution in the country, serving as the custodian of documents relating to Kazakhstan’s socio-political history. It provides scientific and methodological leadership for the national archival system and supports archival services linked to the Office of the President and other state bodies.
One of its flagship international initiatives is the Congress of Archivists, launched in 2022 with the support of ICA, the United Nations, and UNESCO. Previous editions have brought together archival professionals from across the world:
- 2022: Open Archives for an Open Society – over 200 participants from 15 countries
- 2024: Heritage Institutions on the Path to Sustainable Development of Society – participants from 20 countries
Participants of the II Congress of Archivists “Heritage Institutions on the Path to Sustainable Development of Society”, 2 October 2024, Almaty, Kazakhstan.
Questions?
Please send your request at: congress.of.archivists@gmail.com
