We are happy to announce that the registration for our upcoming Convention in Budapest (12-14 May 2025) is open now!

Go here to ensure your spot on-site or indicate if you wish to attend remotely.

The Convention is hosted by the National Archives of Hungary and will take place in the Museum of Hungarian Agriculture (Budapest, XIV. Városliget, Vajdahunyadvár Castle).

Convention Theme

Under the overarching theme “Archives Reflecting 21st Century Challenges”, the Convention will highlight the dual role of archives as custodians of historical memory and active participants in addressing contemporary issues.

The different presentations of the international speakers will touch upon the focus areas of two currently operating, EU co-funded projects:

1. Archives and Traces of Migration (AToM): the Convention will host the project’s closing event in the form of a symposium, that will explore the archival and documentary traces of migration, examine how archives can document, preserve, and make accessible the histories of migrant communities and individuals. Despite the massive historical and growing movement of people between countries and around the globe, as well as the burgeoning economic, political, and cultural interest in many countries of origin to build closer ties with their diasporas, migrant individuals and communities often fall between the cracks of library, archival, museum, and other cultural heritage institutions.
2. Sustainable Archives and Greener Approaches (SAGA): Recent events such as the pandemic, armed conflict and natural disasters have demonstrated the significant role of cultural heritage in every country. Resilience, adaptation strategies and contingency actions are crucial elements for any society. The increasing impacts of climate change, natural and man-made hazards, and related technological, environmental, and biological risks have endangered considerable parts of the archival heritage. These kinds of circumstances frequently imply the need for a quick response. Related sessions will focus on the role of archives in addressing human-made or natural catastrophes, climate change and sustainability, exploring innovative practices and strategies for reducing the environmental footprint of archival institutions.

ICARUS members will also have a dedicated space to share updates and news, and get up to speed concerning the latest developments in Monasterium etc. And of course: not to forget the traditional soccer match!

In addition to the scientific programme the Convention offers a variety of social and cultural highlights in form of guided visits.

Programme

Note: find the preliminary programme here!

Here are some relevant milestones:

Day 1: Monday, 12 May 2025
We’ll begin the AToM Symposium on Monday morning, 12 May 2025, at around 9:30 CEST with an opening session held in the Museum’s Conference Hall. This will be followed by thematic sessions covering “Archival Heritage of Past Migrations” and “Migration Through Archival Lenses” complemented by coffee and lunch break.

After lunch, two more sessions are scheduled (running parallel): “Archival Challenges”  and “Jewish Histories – Emigrant Networks and the Power of Archives”, thereafter we’ll reconvene to celebrate the contributions of the National Archives of Hungary’s Community Archives Volunteers.

Later in the afternoon, you’ll have the option to join one of two guided excursions:

• A visit to our ICARUS member institution, the Open Society Archives (Budapest 1051, Arany János u. 32; max. 30 participants), or

• A tour of the National Museum Conservation and Storage Centre (Budapest 1135, Szabolcs u. 33–35; max. 20 participants).

Both venues are within walking distance of City Park.

No matter which excursion you choose, we’ll all come together again in the evening for a reception at the Ják Chapel, where our hosts will warmly welcome us to close the day.

Day 2: Tuesday, 13 May 2025
Tuesday will feature parallel sessions:

• on the one hand all interested parties are invited to join a dedicated ICARUS session focusing on its members and recent developments, including Monasterium (Next Generation).
  After the coffee break we will introduce the first SAGA session.

• the parallel track will continue with two AToM sessions (“Archival Heritage of Past Migrations” and “Migration Through Archival Lenses”)

The afternoon will also be split between AToM and SAGA-related presentations respectively workshops.

In the evening, those eager for some light exercise and friendly competition can join our traditional ICARUS soccer game (outdoor). Alternatively, you’re welcome to join a visit to the Main Building of our hosting institution, the National Archives of Hungary (Budapest 1014, Bécsi kapu tér 2–4; max. 20 attendees) or get a glimpse into Arcanum Digitization Workshop (transport will be provided from conference venue; max. 15 attendees).

Day 3: Wednesday, 14 May 2025
The final day will conclude with remaining sessions under the SAGA theme, wrapping up around early afternoon.

Our hosts have already compiled a bunch of relevant travel information to support your journey and help plan your stay in Budapest. Please find it here.

Looking forward to seeing you in Budapest