eIDAS2 and Electronic Archiving; One Stage, Many Scripts

Purpose: This paper examines, from an archival science perspective, the eIDAS2 provisions on qualified electronic archiving, which constitute the first pan-European regulation of a specific recordkeeping process.Methods: The study employs a conceptual and comparative analysis of the terminology and requirements introduced by eIDAS2, considering them in relation to established recordkeeping principles and practices. Particular attention is paid to how the term “archiving” is understood across different countries and languages and to the essential properties of records that qualified electronic archiving service providers should preserve. The paper also examines the roles and responsibilities of the main stakeholders involved in electronic archiving, including qualified service providers, record-creating organisations, and national archives.Results: The analysis reveals differences between the understanding of “archiving” within recordkeeping traditions and its use in the eIDAS2 regulatory framework. It also identifies uncertainties concerning the allocation of responsibilities for safeguarding the authenticity, reliability, integrity, and usability of electronic records among the various stakeholders.Discussion: The findings suggest that eIDAS2 incorporates certain elements of a recordkeeping perspective on electronic archiving but approaches the process from a predominantly technical and IT-oriented perspective. A clearer alignment between qualified electronic archiving services and established recordkeeping principles could contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the long-term preservation and evidential value of electronic records.