RESOLUTION OF THE COUNCIL AND THE MINISTERS OF CULTURE MEETING WITHIN THE COUNCIL of 14 November 1991 on arrangements concerning archives (91/C 314/02)

THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES AND THE MINISTERS OF CULTURE MEETING WITHIN THE COUNCIL,

In view of the twofold role of archives as a basis for decision-making in the public sector on the one hand, and as a vital component of a nation's cultural heritage on the other;

In view of the increased intermingling of public records among Member States and between Member States and the Community, and bearing in mind the legislation concerning the opening to the public of the historical archives of the Community (1);

Bearing in mind that the European archival heritage provides an indispensable resource for writing the history of Europe or of an individual nation;

Considering that well-kept and accessible archives contribute greatly to the democratic functioning of our societies;

Considering that an adequate archives policy and efficient archives management create the conditions for the accessibility needed,

INVITE the Commission:

- to set up a group of experts appointed on the proposal of the Member States, for the purpose of examining to what extent greater coordination of archives policy and practice within the Community is desirable,

- to transmit a progress report by the group to the Council before the end of 1992.

(1) Council Regulation (EEC, Euratom) No 354/83 (OJ No L 43, 15. 2. 1983, p. 1); Commission Decision No 359/83/ECSC (OJ No L 43, 15. 2. 1983, p. 14).