Archaeological and Anthropological Functions of the IRD–OPC

The Interdisciplinary Research and Development OPC– (IRD–OPC) functions as the institutional locus for the planning, coordination, and quality assurance of archaeological and anthropological undertakings, with particular emphasis on Archaeological Impact Assessment (AIA). In this capacity, the Office ensures that all archaeological and anthropological activities conducted by or through the institution are scientifically grounded, ethically responsible, culturally sensitive, and compliant with national heritage policies and international standards.

As the coordinating office for Archaeological Impact Assessments, the IRD–OPC provides technical oversight across all phases of AIA implementation. This includes the initial evaluation of project requests, formulation of appropriate scopes of work, and assignment of qualified personnel with the requisite archaeological and anthropological expertise. The Office ensures that AIA activities—ranging from reconnaissance and systematic surveys to test excavations and full-scale archaeological excavations—are conducted using accepted scientific methodologies and are responsive to the specific environmental, historical, and cultural contexts of project sites.

The IRD–OPC plays a critical role in ensuring regulatory and ethical compliance in all archaeological undertakings. It coordinates the preparation, internal review, and submission of technical reports and supporting documentation required by relevant regulatory bodies, and maintains institutional records of permits, endorsements, and compliance correspondence. Through these functions, the Office safeguards the integrity of the institution’s archaeological practice and ensures adherence to national cultural heritage laws and implementing guidelines.

Beyond impact assessment, the IRD–OPC supports and undertakes archaeological research and cultural heritage documentation as part of the institution’s broader research mandate. This includes the systematic recording and analysis of archaeological sites, features, and material culture, as well as the proper documentation, curation, and management of recovered materials. The Office ensures that archaeological data and collections are handled in accordance with professional standards, institutional policies, and ethical considerations, particularly when dealing with culturally sensitive materials.

Anthropological functions of the IRD–OPC complement and enrich its archaeological mandate. The Office facilitates anthropological and ethnographic studies in communities affected by development projects, with particular attention to social organization, belief systems, cultural practices, and local knowledge systems. These studies provide essential socio-cultural context to archaeological findings and inform culturally appropriate recommendations in AIA reports and heritage management plans.

A central aspect of the Office’s anthropological role is its commitment to ethical engagement with Indigenous Peoples and local communities. The IRD–OPC ensures that research and assessment activities are conducted with respect for ancestral domains, sacred sites, and community values, and that culturally appropriate consultation processes are observed. Where applicable, the Office supports processes related to Free and Prior Informed Consent and ensures that community perspectives are meaningfully integrated into project outcomes.

The IRD–OPC also functions as a knowledge management and quality assurance unit for archaeological and anthropological outputs. All technical reports, assessments, and studies undergo internal review to ensure methodological rigor, clarity, and compliance prior to submission or dissemination. The Office maintains an institutional repository of archaeological and anthropological records, supporting transparency, continuity of research, and long-term heritage stewardship.

Finally, the Office contributes to institutional and sectoral capacity building by coordinating training activities, technical briefings, and inter-agency engagements related to archaeology, anthropology, and cultural heritage management. Through collaboration with academic units, government agencies, local government units, and partner institutions, the IRD–OPC strengthens the institution’s role as a responsible and credible contributor to heritage research, impact assessment, and cultural resource management.