Archaeological Ethics, Provenance and Cultural Heritage

Heritage and Archaeological Discoveries (HAD) requires archaeological and heritage research to respect applicable law, professional standards, communities, collections and the integrity of the archaeological record.

Lawful provenance

Authors must explain where objects, samples, records and datasets came from and how they were accessed. Material with uncertain ownership, illicit provenance or links to unauthorized excavation or trade may be rejected.

Permits and repositories

Excavation, survey, sampling, export, destructive-analysis and collection permits must be identified where applicable. Manuscripts should state the repository or responsible custodial institution for finds and records.

Sensitive heritage

Precise site locations, collection-security details or culturally restricted information should be withheld when disclosure could enable looting, damage or misuse. Any restriction must be explained.

Editorial review

Editors may request permits, provenance records, repository confirmation or specialist advice when legal, ethical or custodial questions arise.