The status of private archives in archival legislation

Abstract

This study explores the fundamental role that private archives play in the faithful reconstruction of historical events. By examining their specific characteristics, their provenance, and their value, we highlight the importance of these archives as essential primary sources for historians in their request for truth. Based on specialized literature, the study also investigates the legal status of private archives within national archival legislation, while placing our reflexion in an international comparative framework, through the examination of some experiences of pioneering countries in this field. A descriptive methodological approach was adopted to conduct this analysis. The study concludes with a set of strategic propositions designed to reinforce the integration of private archives into public archival policies and to promote their preservation and valorization. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that these archives contribute meaningfully to safeguarding historical memory and transmitting reliable, well-documented facts to future generations.