Vermillion Accord on Human Remains (1989) (Legislation)

Introduction

The World Archaeological Congress (WAC) adopted the Vermillion Accord on Human Remains at its first Inter-Congress, held at Vermillion, South Dakota, in September 1989. The Accord comprises six principles that have since greatly influenced debates and the formulation of ethical policies in respect of scientific use of human remains by archaeologists and researchers in cognate disciplines.

Definition

The first four principles of the Accord commit WAC members to observe and advocate the following:

• 1. Respect for the mortal remains of the dead shall be accorded to all, irrespective of origin, race, religion, nationality, custom, and tradition.

• 2. Respect for the wishes of the dead concerning disposition shall be accorded whenever possible, reasonable, and lawful, when they are known or can be reasonably inferred.

• 3. Respect for the wishes of the local community and of relatives or guardians of the dead shall be accorded whenever possible, reasonable, and lawful.

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