Welcome to the 23rd Congress of the Indo‑Pacific Prehistory Association

The 23rd Congress of the Indo‑Pacific Prehistory Association welcomes delegates, researchers, students, community partners, and heritage practitioners to Yogyakarta, Indonesia, for a week of exchange, collaboration, and discovery. Hosted in one of Southeast Asia’s most vibrant cultural and academic centres, IPPA23 brings together scholars working across archaeology, heritage studies, anthropology, linguistics, environmental sciences, and allied disciplines to explore the deep and diverse human histories of the Indo‑Pacific region.

A Gathering of Regional and Global Expertise 

IPPA, the largest organisation of scholars in archaeology, museum and heritage, anthropology, and other related fields, in the Indo-Pacific region continues a long tradition of fostering dialogue across island and mainland Southeast Asia, the Pacific, South Asia, and Australasia. Our conference aims provide a platform for presenting new research, ongoing projects, debating emerging ideas, and strengthening networks that support collaborative, ethical, and community‑engaged scholarship. With sessions spanning early human dispersals, ethnoarchaeology, zooarchaeology, archaeobotany, bioarchaeology, maritime archaeology, heritage management, archaeomusicology, digital methods, and more, the programme reflects the breadth and dynamism of Indo‑Pacific research today.

Yogyakarta: A Cultural and Intellectual Hub

Set against the backdrop of Yogyakarta’s rich heritage and home to world‑renowned archaeological sites, living traditions, and leading universities, IPPA23 offers delegates an opportunity to engage with Indonesia’s cultural landscapes both inside and beyond the conference venue. The Mid‑conference tour and cultural interests surrounding Universitas Gadja Mada will introduce participants to the region’s archaeological, artistic, and community‑based heritage.

Building Connections Across the Indo‑Pacific

IPPA23 is committed to creating an inclusive, supportive environment for researchers at all career stages. The Congress encourages interdisciplinary dialogue, cross‑regional comparison, and respectful engagement with Indigenous and local knowledge systems. Through papers, posters, workshops, and informal exchanges, delegates will contribute to a shared understanding of the Indo‑Pacific’s past and its relevance to contemporary communities.

We look forward to meeting you all in Yogyakarta!