The World Archaeological Congress is a non-governmental, not-for-profit organization and is the only archaeological organisation with elected global representation. Membership is open to archaeologists, heritage managers, students and members of the public.

The goals of WAC are to:

• promote interest in the past in all countries
• encourage the development of regionally-based histories
• foster international academic interaction

WAC is committed to diversity and to redressing global inequities in archaeology through conferences, publications and scholarly programs. It has a special interest in protecting the cultural heritage of Indigenous peoples, minorities and economically disadvantaged countries, and encourages the participation of Indigenous peoples, researchers from economically disadvantaged countries and members of the public.