Archives in Times of War and Peace: More Than 150 Audiovisual Heritage Professionals Gather in Vilnius
From 19 to 22 October, Vilnius hosted the international IASA–BAAC 2026 Conference at the Martynas Mažvydas National Library of Lithuania. Entitled “Archives in Times of War and Peace: Safeguarding Audiovisual Memory, Identity, and Authenticity”, the conference brought together more than 150 participants from around the world.
The conference theme is particularly relevant in today's world. Wars, political conflicts, humanitarian crises and rapidly evolving technologies are raising new questions about the role and responsibilities of archives. Archives are not merely repositories of historical documents – they preserve collective memory, cultural identity and authentic records of the past.
The conference presentations addressed key challenges facing archives today: protecting collections during armed conflicts and crises, strengthening institutional resilience, preserving the histories of vulnerable communities, and ensuring the authenticity of audiovisual records in the age of artificial intelligence and disinformation.
The presentations and discussions highlighted that safeguarding audiovisual heritage is not just a technical task, but also a responsibility to future generations. The exchange of international experience and practical solutions provided an opportunity to explore common challenges and strengthen professional cooperation.
An important part of the programme consisted of professional visits to Lithuanian memory and audiovisual heritage institutions. Participants visited the Lithuanian Central State Archives, where they learned about the preservation of Lithuania's audiovisual heritage. At Lithuanian National Radio and Television (LRT), guests were introduced to the history of Lithuanian broadcasting and the preservation of radio and television collections. Another visit took place at the Kinoteka Hall on Ozo Street, one of the oldest cinemas in Vilnius, showing non-commercial, auteur, experimental, "non-repertoire" cinema and classic works, and also the only one where the film repertoire is shown only from analogue film reels.
These visits offered an opportunity to discover the work of Lithuanian institutions, exchange professional experience and establish new international connections.
The conference in Vilnius became an important platform for international dialogue and cooperation, highlighting the vital role of archives in safeguarding memory, identity and historical truth in times of both war and peace.
