A space at the table? Global challenges and contemporary archaeology as plural transdisciplinary design for the future
Abstract
Archaeologists often proclaim that they have much to contribute to the ‘global challenges’ of the twenty-first century, yet they find little space at the policymaking table. In this debate article, the authors argue that archaeologists seeking practical relevance must start with a critical, expanded understanding of the contemporary, including how communities, stakeholders and complex policy structures operate to navigate unfolding socioecological crises. They propose a reversed historical directionality grounded in transdisciplinary research design that integrates contemporary challenges and community-defined priorities from the outset to foster a dynamic, future-facing dialogue that more readily informs pathways to tangible impact.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Archaeology and ancient environmental studies
Historical and Cultural Archaeology Studies
Archaeological Research and Protection
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Antiquity
- Publisher
- Antiquity Publications
- Volume
- 100
- Issue
- 409
- Pages
- 207–217
- Publication date
- 1 February 2026
- Language
- EN