Supported by a grant from the Programme Commission (PCOM) following the 2026 PCOM Call for Projects, the 13th International Seminar on Archives of Iberian Tradition (SIATI) brought archivists, researchers and public officials together in Panama to exchange knowledge, share practices and strengthen regional cooperation.
Held in Panama in March 2026, the 13th International Seminar on Archives of Iberian Tradition (SIATI), under the theme Archives: Democracy, Innovation and Governance, provided an opportunity for archival professionals, researchers and public officials from across Ibero-America to discuss emerging challenges and share experiences.
Led by Alejandra Salazar, President of the Latin American Regional Branch (ALA), the project addressed the need to strengthen professional exchange and regional cooperation among archival institutions across Ibero-America.
Addressing shared challenges in the archival field
The seminar created an opportunity to discuss issues including digital transformation, documentary heritage, access to information and professional development.
By bringing together archivists, researchers and public officials, SIATI supported the exchange of innovative practices and encouraged collaboration on these areas.
How PCOM Funding Supported SIATI
PCOM funding supported the participation of international keynote speakers and experts, contributing to the academic programme of the 13th SIATI.
The programme included lectures, panel discussions and knowledge-sharing sessions, providing participants with opportunities to exchange experiences and perspectives.
Strengthening professional networks
The seminar strengthened regional cooperation and facilitated the exchange of experiences among archival professionals from across Ibero-America.
It also promoted international networking, generated new opportunities for collaborative initiatives, supported the dissemination of good practices, and encouraged innovation in archival management and preservation.
As project leader Alejandra Salazar explains: 
PCOM support made it possible to expand the international reach and academic quality of SIATI. Beyond funding, it strengthened collaboration, knowledge exchange, and professional networks, demonstrating how international cooperation can create lasting benefits for the archival community.
Photo credit: Asociación Latinoamericana de Archivos (ALA)
Inspired by this project?
The PCOM Call for Projects 2027 is still open for proposals for projects and initiatives planned for 2027. If you have a project that fosters professional development, knowledge sharing, capacity building, and innovation across the ICA network, PCOM offers an opportunity to turn it into action.
Applicants must be ICA members in good standing, or their parent organisation must already be an ICA member in good standing and partner with the applicant.
The application deadline is 18 September 2026.
