The International Council on Archives (ICA) is proud to announce the eighth edition of International Archives Week (IAW2026), taking place from 8–12 June 2026, under the global theme #ArchivesForJustice: Rights, Memory & Futures.
Selected through a global survey involving hundreds of responses from ICA members and the wider archival community, this year’s theme reflects a shared recognition of the fundamental role archives play in supporting justice, rights, and democratic societies.
Archivists, educators, human rights defenders, researchers, students, and civil society groups are all invited to participate, share, and learn during this global week of reflection and action.
Theme: #ArchivesForJustice: Rights, Memory & Futures
Archives play a fundamental role in supporting justice, safeguarding rights, preserving memory, and enabling accountability. They serve as trusted reference points documenting decisions, responsibilities, and histories, contributing to legal, social, cultural, environmental, historical, and intergenerational justice. Archives also reflect power dynamics and colonial legacies, highlighting the need for inclusive, participatory, and ethical archival practices that ensure equitable access for marginalized, Indigenous, and historically excluded communities.
Five Key Subthemes
Archives as evidence supporting accountability, human rights, and responses to historical crimes.
Preserving testimonies, oral histories, and community narratives to restore memory and reinforce dignity.
Participatory, community-led approaches ensuring meaningful access and shared stewardship.
Addressing the impact of colonialism, questions of restitution, repatriation, and ethical custodianship.
Supporting emerging forms of justice through digital infrastructures, AI tools, and sustainable, community-focused practices.
Host an event, webinar, or discussion exploring how archives support justice, rights, and memory. Collaborate with institutions, professionals, and communities, and share your event by adding it to the official #IAW2026 Agenda.
Explore the International Archives Week 2026 Content Hub for resources (coming soon!)
Submit a case study proposal to share your experience, research, or project, and highlight how archives contribute to justice in its many forms.
Take part in #IAW2026 webinars and discussions with professionals and communities worldwide (coming soon!)
Use the IAW2026 Media Kit to access ready-to-use posters, visuals, to promote your event, project, or activities effectively.
From accountability to memory, inclusion to future-oriented practices, International Archives Week 2026 will highlight how archives can contribute to justice across societies and generations, empowering communities and shaping a fairer future.
Share your project, join the conversation online or attend an event to be part of the global conversation on archives for justice.
