16 May 2018

A piece of paper in Munich (not that one)

It was a delightful honour to be able to represent CIfA at the annual conference of the Deutschen Gesellschaft für Ur- und Frühgeschichte (the German Society for Pre- and Protohistory, more commonly known by its initials as DGUF). This august learned body, founded in 1969, is the largest archaeological association in Germany with over 700 members. More recently it has been closely involved with CIfA in setting up a German group of the Chartered Institute.


Signing the MoU between CIfA and DGUF.

Gerry Wait and I went to Munich last week to take part in the inaugural AGM of the new group. This was an opportunity for us to help explain the role of CIfA and what it could (and could not) do to help archaeologists in Germany. The AGM was remarkable for its enthusiasm and orderliness. Both of these characteristics are sometimes conspicuously absent from CIfA meetings in the UK, which can be cynical and chaotic affairs. However the passion and commitment of our German colleagues to the cause of professionalism and professional standards in archaeology was commendable and very refreshing.

This was also an opportunity to sign a draft Memorandum of Understanding between DGUF and CIfA, which - when finalised - will establish closer co-operation between the two organisations. Here are the signatories to that piece of paper. I am looking forward to seeing how the CIfA Deutschland group develops, and I really hope that the 'mother' CIfA can learn some much-needed lessons in administrative efficiency amongst other things.

I enjoyed Munich very much, and found time to see some of the sights as well as discussing archaeology, professionalism and of course Brexit with German colleagues. The keynote paper was given in Grünwald Castle, and was followed by a delightful early evening drinking some of the various local beers.

Hopefully there will be an opportunity to attend next year's DGUF meeting in Bonn.




No comments: