Good news for Brussels archivists! After years of lobbying, the retention period for books and accounting vouchers has been reduced from 30 to 10 years. This decision, made official by the government of the Brussels-Capital Region, will free up kilometers of storage space and simplify archive management.
A relief for archivists
For a long time, Brussels’ archivists had been crushed under the weight of their accounting archives. Kept for 30 years, these archives took up a considerable amount of space and required considerable resources to maintain. Reducing the retention period to 10 years will make it possible to get rid of a large proportion of these documents, while ensuring that essential items are kept for a sufficiently long period.
Harmonized practices
Reducing the retention period for accounting records harmonizes practices between the different regions of Belgium. Wallonia had already taken this step in 2020, and Brussels is now following suit. This standardization will simplify procedures and facilitate collaboration between administrations.
Saving space and efficiency
Reducing the retention period for accounting archives is a breath of fresh air for Brussels’ archivists. It will enable them to save valuable space on their premises and concentrate on managing more recent and more useful archives. In addition, it will improve the efficiency of documentary research and facilitate access to information for citizens.
A positive step forward
Reducing the retention period for accounting records is a positive step forward for archivists, administrations and citizens alike. It will simplify procedures, save space and improve the efficiency of archive management.
In conclusion, the reduction in the retention period for accounting records is a welcome decision that meets the needs of Brussels archivists, and is in line with the aim of harmonizing practices at national level.
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