15 November 2024. Classified Histories: The role of archives in shaping conflict narratives

Classified Histories: The role of archives in shaping conflict narratives. SEE FLYER HERE

Movie screening followed by a panel discussion

University of Geneva, November 15, 2024
12 :15 to 14:00

Room M R170, UNIMAIL

Public and private archives, which house official records, testimonies, and other essential materials, serve as crucial repositories of information in conflict and post-conflict societies.
However, the control and access to archives often dictate whether these records serve as tools for fact-based discourse or reinforce dominant, state-sanctioned narratives.

Utilizing archival records recently declassified following Akevot's research, a new Israeli documentary film offers an opportunity to reflect on secrets, erasure, memory and the role of archives in shaping conflict narratives. The screening of the movie “Agenda Item: Erasure” will be followed by a panel discussion in which Israeli and Swiss academics and activists will share insights on how conflict and post-conflict societies can use archival material to reclaim control over their collective memory, restore lost or suppressed histories, and foster a more nuanced understanding of the past. The event is co-organized by the Geneva Heritage Lab and Akevot in cooperation with the Department of Geography and Environment, the Maison de l’histoire and the organizers of the human rights week.

Short introduction

• Lior Yavne, Executive Director, Akevot
• Adam Raz, Senior Researcher, Akevot
• Moderation, Peter Bille Larsen, Geneva Heritage Lab

Screening of the film Agenda Item: Erasure

35 minutes | Director: Einat Weizman | Production: Akevot Institute

Two months into the war in Gaza, seven political activists got together inside a closed, empty theater in Tel Aviv. Each of them fights the injustices of the state in their own way. They were asked to read from the transcripts of government meetings dating back to 1948, which had been classified until recently and opened for access after a long struggle by Akevot Institute. Viewers watch the activists as they take their first look at documentation that was inaccessible for decades, and together with them, learn about dark aspects of Israeli history.

Discussion

• Frédéric Giraut, Department of Geography and Environment
• Estelle Sohier, Department of Geography and Environment