In 1976 a study group for auxiliary sciences of archeology is set up: the Ad hoc Committee for Archaeology. It is composed of national representatives, experts in the general organisation of archaeological research and in methods and techniques used in archeology.
In 1978, the Ad hoc Committee presented its recommendations to the Assembly, which satisfied with the preparatory work achieved, agreed with the recommendations to set up a more permanent body within the ESF: a sub committee of the Standing Committee for the Humanities.