The EAA is a membership-based association open to all archaeologists and other related or interested individuals or bodies. The EAA currently has over 1100 members from 41 countries world-wide.

The EAA was created- to promote the development of archaeological research in Europe and the exchange of archaeological information- to promote the protection, management and interpretation of the European archaeological heritage- to promote proper ethical and scientific standards for archaeological work- to promote the interests of professional archaeologists in Europe- to promote co-operation with organisations with similar aims In promoting its aims, the EAA publishes, together with Sage Publications Ltd., the European Journal of Archaeology (EJA) three times a year.

The Association organizes conferences and seminars and acts as an advisory body on all issues relating to the archaeology of Europe.