Frequently Asked Questions — Archive & Resist Conclave

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Frequently Asked Questions — Archive & Resist Conclave

Check this page regularly for updates on the Conclave.

What is the Archive & Resist Conclave?

The Archive & Resist Conclave is an unconference-style gathering where community members, practitioners, archivists, journalists, researchers, and national and international experts come together to share knowledge, resources, memories, solidarity, and strategies for justice.

This year, the conclave focuses on transitional justice in Bangladesh, exploring how documentation, archiving, and community-led investigations can support truth, accountability, and democratic futures. Sessions, workshops, and collaborative activities will revolve around three core themes:

1️⃣ Human Rights Documentation & Evidence-Ready Archiving
We see archiving not only as documentation, but as a meaningful process that preserves memory, strengthens accountability, and supports justice. We ask:
What kind of archives do we want for the future? Archives that only record harm, or archives that also carry hope, solidarity, and the imagination of justice?

2️⃣ Community-Led Investigations & OSINT
Experts will lead sessions on practices, tools, and technologies for community-driven investigation, including human rights documentation, digital safety, journalist protection, and mental health support.

3️⃣ Building a Collaborative Future
We aim to create a space for cross-border solidarity, dialogue, and resource-sharing—cultivating knowledge, care, and collective strength for democratic futures in times of transition.

In the future, this collaborative space will continue through a steering committee made up of leading organizations working on digital rights, archiving, and human rights protection in the region.

Who is Organizing This?

The Conclave will be co-convened by Activate Rights, Bangladesh Protest Archive, and WITNESS, with support from UNDP Bangladesh and the Archive & Resist Fund.
We are collaborating with Netra News, Bangladeshi Journalists in International Media (BJIM), and Surge Bangladesh, and in partnership with BRAC University. Co-hosts include: SAPRAN, a rights-based think tank, (More collaborating organizations will be announced soon).

What is an Unconference?

An unconference is a community- and participant-driven event where attendees actively shape the agenda. Unlike traditional conferences with fixed speakers and panels, unconferences center collaborative, peer-to-peer learning.

Participants can propose topics, facilitate discussions, share skills, and respond to emerging needs in flexible, informal ways. This creates a dynamic learning environment grounded in collective knowledge and lived experience.

Key Characteristics

Participant-Led: Attendees propose and lead sessions

Collaborative Learning: Dialogue-focused, problem-solving oriented

Flexible & Responsive: Sessions adapt to needs and interests

When and where is the Conclave taking place?

The conclave will take place 26–27 January 2026 in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Final venue details will be shared with confirmed participants. We are working to ensure the venue is safe, accessible, and inclusive, likely within Dhaka North or South City Corporation areas.

Who will be participating?

The Archive & Resist Conclave welcomes anyone interested in:

digital rights

archiving & memory work

human rights documentation & investigation

transitional justice

media, activism, and civic engagement

Participants may include academics, journalists, rights advocates, technologists, artists, designers, youth leaders, marginalized community representatives, and more.

How can I participate? Are there fees?

Only registered participants may attend.
To express interest, please complete the registration form.

There is no registration fee, but participation slots are limited. Late submissions may not be accepted once capacity is reached. Registration is opening soon.

Travel & Accommodation Information

For local participants:
You only need to register to attend.

For international participants:

Visa:
Visa requirements depend on your country of origin. Please contact the relevant Bangladeshi embassy or consulate. If you require supporting documents, email:
📧 info@activaterights.org
Signal: shoeb.38

Travel:
Participants are responsible for arranging their own travel. Dhaka offers multiple transport options including public transit, ride-sharing, and taxis.

Payments:
Bangladeshi Taka (BDT) is widely accepted. Cash is common for markets, transport, and small vendors. Cards are accepted in hotels, malls, large restaurants, and many urban establishments.

What protocols will be followed during the conclave?

Code of Conduct:
Archive & Resist Conclave maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward harassment, including gender-based, racial, or any other form of abuse or discrimination.
If you experience or witness misconduct, please immediately inform event staff or security personnel.

What should I wear? Is there a dress code?

Whatever makes you comfortable. This is a casual, informal event.

Will there be food?

Yes.