International Archives Week 2025: Archives for Everyone

The theme, #ArchivesAreAccessible – Archives for Everyone, focusses on the importance of removing barriers and ensuring equitable access to archival collections.

Chosen through an international survey of over 300 participants, the theme highlights how accessibility goes beyond digitisation. It calls for archives to reflect and serve diverse communities by addressing physical, digital, cultural, and systemic challenges.

The campaign explores four key subthemes:

• Overcoming Barriers to Archive Access

• Harnessing Technology to Enhance Access

• Changing Perceptions of Archives in Society

• Promoting Inclusion and Representation in Archival Practices

Throughout the week, institutions and professionals around the world will showcase how they are improving access through events, webinars, outreach initiatives, and innovative digital tools. Activities will be shared globally via the #IAW2025 Agenda and #ArchivesAreAccessible Map, inspiring dialogue and collaboration across the sector.

RIMPA Global encourages the records and information management community to take part—whether by hosting events, contributing Lightning Talks, or engaging online.

For more information and ways to participate, visit the International Archives Week webpage or follow the conversation using #IAW2025 and #ArchivesAreAccessible.