The International Practice group provides a forum for historic environment professionals working on projects and initiatives based outside of the UK and Republic of Ireland and advises CIfA Advisory Council on issues relevant to international practice of archaeological and cultural heritage management.
We are keen to strengthen the CIfA’s links with a number of international associations, organisations and initiatives involved in cultural heritage professional practice, capacity building and training. We would like to enhance international perspectives in CIfA, with a view to fostering innovation by learning from ongoing debates and advances in other countries and regions.
The International Practice Group will be acting as a think tank for the delivery of the CIfA strategic plan, with a particular focus on:
- Promoting the advancement of archaeological and cultural heritage practice and initiatives on professional practice outside the UK and Ireland
- Exploring issues related to professional standards, methodology, ethics, training and capacity building in countries and cultures with diverse social, cultural and legal systems
- Working towards the preparation of an international code of conduct/best practice guide
- Exchanging and developing knowledge, ideas and practical experiences, to develop best practice
- Organising seminars and workshops to act as a forum for developing and maintaining best practice in matters relating to international cultural heritage
- Establishing relationships and strengthening CIfA links with other international associations and organisations involved in international cultural heritage (e.g. EAA, ICOMOS, ICAHM, IAIA)
- Advising Council on actions it might take in an advocacy role to effect advances in archaeological and heritage practice and management (e.g. European Union, Council of Europe, UNESCO)
- Bringing together international commercial and academic practice on survey, research, heritage management and policy
- Increase understanding of the role of archaeologists in society and improve our status
International Practice Group are looking for a Secretary and Chair!
The group has been running without a chair or secretary for a year now, and needs volunteers to come forward to give guidance and direction to reach its full potential again.
General Chair responsibilities include:
- chair committee meetings
- direct and lead Group development
- coordinate and delegate tasks to committee members
- encourage and support the committee
General Secretary responsibilities include:
- organise committee meetings and share meeting minutes
- organise the group AGM
- submit an Annual Report about the group’s activities
- liaise with the committee to produce and update the group’s three-year plan
Getting involved by volunteering with CIfA is a great way to make the most of your membership and have an impact on your profession. It also gives you the opportunity to develop your knowledge and skills as well as network and engage with other professionals.
The prefect person for either role will be:
- a good communicator
- organised
- supportive and approachable
- an accredited member of CIfA (PCIfA, ACIfA, or MCIfA)
If you are interested in joining the International Practice committee as a chair or secretary, or would like more information about the roles, please email groups@archaeologists.net or complete this form to express your interest in either of the roles by Monday 13 July 2026.