Code of Ethics of the Japanese Archaeological Association

Preamble

In accordance with the principles of freedom and equality, and seeking the sound development of archaeology, the Japanese Archaeological Association (JAA) recognizes cultural properties as the common heritage of humankind, and takes both the task of striving for their preservation, and of contributing thereby to the further advancement of society, as its mission. In order to carry out this mission, this Code of Ethics is hereby established as a model which should be observed by all JAA members. The JAA also believes this Code may serve at the same time as a model to be followed by all persons involved in archaeological investigation and research in the broadest sense.

1. As members of society

(1) Preservation of archaeological materials

JAA members recognize that the sites, features, and artifacts which archaeology takes as its objects of study are the precious heritage of human history and culture, and strive to preserve and utilize these materials.

(2) Accessibility and dissemination of the results of investigation and research

JAA members make the scholarly results of investigation and research available to the wider society, and strive to disseminate those results.

(3) Consideration for society and the environment

In the conduct of investigation and research, JAA members respect the local history, culture, and natural environment, and give consideration to their relations with the local community.

(4) Respect for intellectual property rights

JAA members respect the intellectual products of others, and the rights to intellectual property held by others, and must not infringe those rights.

(5) Prohibition of illicit trade in artifacts and art objects

JAA members must not be involved in the plunder, or illicit trade or transfer of cultural properties such as artifacts and art objects.

(6) Observation of relevant laws

In the conduct of investigation and research in either foreign countries or in Japan, JAA members observe the laws of that country.

2. As researchers

(1) Professional capabilities in investigation and research

With regard to investigation and research, JAA members strive to advance their professional capabilities through the acquisition of knowledge and methodologies, including those of related fields, and to conduct their work to the best of their abilities.

(2) Preparation and planning for investigation

JAA members begin archaeological investigation after having received the appropriate education and training, and moreover after first making appropriate preparations and plans in advance.

(3) Making and preserving records of investigation

In the investigation of archaeological sites, JAA members make appropriate and permanent records, and further take every measure to assure the preservation of these records even after publication of a research report.

(4) Preparation of research reports

Regarding the results of investigation of archaeological sites, JAA members publish appropriate research reports in timely fashion, and strive to make the scholarly results widely known and commonly shared.

(5) Preservation, management, and public accessibility of materials and records

JAA members recognize that the materials and records obtained through investigation are the common heritage of humankind, and strive to make them publicly accessible, in addition to taking appropriate measures for their preservation and management.

(6) Consideration for safety, hygiene, and human rights

In the conduct of investigation and research, JAA members take every measure to assure safety and hygiene, and respect human rights.

(7) Prohibition of fraudulent activity

In the conduct of investigation and research as well as in the publication of the results, JAA members must not engage in any fraudulent activity, such as fabrication or falsification of materials or records, or the plagiarizing of research results.