Conservation is a core value for most archaeological societies. It is highlighted in their codes of ethics, statements of mission, and governance. In recognition of this, the World Archaeological Congress, with the Getty Conservation Institute and a consortium of other conservation organizations, brought together scholars working throughout the globe to discuss critically important issues that affect the archaeological heritage today. This volume presents the proceedings of the Conservation Theme at the Congress, held in Washington, DC, 22-26 June 2003. The papers are organized under the following topics: Innovative Approaches to Policy and Management of Archaeological Sites; Conserving Archaeological Sites - New Approaches and Techniques; Finding Common Ground - The Role of Stakeholders in Decision Making; Issues at World Heritage Sites; Archaeology and Tourism - A Viable Partnership? Challenges in Conserving Archaeological Collections; Preserving the Cultural Heritage of Iraq and Afghanistan; Archaeology and Conservation in China Today - Meeting the Challenges of Rapid Development; and Managing Archaeological Sites and Rock Art Sites in Southern Africa.
The authors, a number of whom are practicing archaeologists, address concerns, approaches, and developments at specific sites and in broader regions. These proceedings, representing the exchange of ideas at the Congress, should do much to promote and strengthen the relationship between the disciplines of conservation and archaeology.