Why Does the Egyptian Antiquities Authority Control the Publicization of New Archaeological Discoveries?
The question often arises whether the Egyptian authorities strictly control the publicization of new archaeological findings. Contrary to the common misconceptions, the Egyptian Supreme Council for Antiquities (SCA) does indeed permit new discoveries to be made public. However, they maintain a degree of control over how and when such information is disseminated to the media.
Why the Control?
The current antiquities administration, working in collaboration with the Egyptian Tourism Ministry, makes unprecedented efforts to publicize their recent discoveries. They hold monthly press conferences and work diligently to gain global attention. Their motivation is clear: they aim to attract more tourists, as tourism is a critical lifeline for the country's economy. However, it's not merely about the release of new information. It's also about maintaining the status quo in historical narratives.
The Issue of Openness and Transparency
Challenges in openness and transparency are partly due to concerns raised by experts.
Zahi Hawass, the former Director-General of SCA, faced significant reevaluations of his findings. He staunchly defended his work, often refusing to acknowledge errors. This behavior reflects a broader issue within the world of archaeology, where governments, large religious institutions, and international bodies often manage historical narratives to maintain the status quo. Transparency is indeed hindered, as findings that could disrupt the status quo might be treated with caution.
Historical Context and Tourism
The control over the publicization of discoveries can be traced to historical events. In the 19th century, European powers, particularly Germany, had control over parts of Egypt. During this time, Sumerian artifacts were sometimes taken to other countries. After World War II, when Britain took control of Egypt, tourism and the exploration of Sumerian artifacts became crucial for Egypt's economy. To this day, the Sumerian connection remains a key factor in attracting tourists from around the world, interested in ancient Sumerian dynasties, jewelry, scripts, and tablets.
The Egyptian Antiquities Authority is aware that any significant new discoveries must be managed carefully. They often encourage scholars and researchers to visit museums and explore artifacts rather than releasing new information to the public. This approach not only safeguards the delicate nature of historical artifacts but also ensures a steady flow of tourism, which is essential for the country's economic stability.
Conclusion
The Egyptian Antiquities Authority's control over the publicization of new archaeological discoveries is a complex issue involving economic, political, and historical considerations. While they do permit new findings to be made public, the timing and manner of release are carefully managed to maintain the integrity of Egypt's historical narrative and to foster tourism. Understanding the underlying motivations can provide a deeper appreciation of the challenges faced by such authorities in balancing archaeological discovery with economic and social objectives.