Audiovisual archives constitute a fundamental pillar in preserving both national and human memory, as they encompass living recordings that document social, cultural, and political changes across different historical periods. They are not merely a means of storing information; rather, they represent a rich source of knowledge that reflects ways of life, traditions, and human experiences in audiovisual formats. These formats surpass written texts in their ability to convey reality and its finer details.

In this context, digital transformation has become an urgent necessity to ensure the sustainability of this heritage, safeguard it from deterioration and loss, and enhance accessibility and usability for scientific research, as well as cultural and media production.

Driven by its commitment to preserving and providing access to audiovisual materials as an integral component of the national memory and cultural identity of the Sultanate of Oman, and in light of rapid technological advancements, the growing reliance on audiovisual communication, the rise of simulation technologies, and the proliferation of fabricated content, the National Records and Archives Authority underscores the importance of studying this type of archival material through modern scientific methodologies.

This includes processes of collection, organization, preservation, and accessibility for researchers and scholars, while also promoting national identity for future generations.

In pursuit of these objectives, the National Records and Archives Authority of the Sultanate of Oman is organizing the Third International Conference on Records and Archives under the title: “Audiovisual Archives: A National Memory.”

Objectives of the Conference

1. Highlight the role of the National Records and Archives Authority in archiving, describing, and preserving audiovisual materials.
2. Explore the latest technologies and media used in archiving and preserving audiovisual materials.
3. Shed light on the role of audiovisual institutions and archives in promoting cultural identity.
4. Discuss challenges related to legislation and intellectual property rights concerning audiovisual archives.
5. Review international initiatives and best practices in the management and preservation of audiovisual materials.
6. Strengthen academic collaboration and training and foster the exchange of expertise in archiving audiovisual materials.
7. Raise public awareness about the importance of preserving and maintaining audiovisual archives.