The "Recognition of intellectual, cultural and social diversity and respect for difference as forces for cross-cultural understanding and social cohesion" is one of ICOM's core values.
ICOM's policy with respect to its programmes of activities has been to implement these values by encouraging the regionally based work in order to strengthen the network of museum professionals in a region with a view to consolidating local communication networks and sharing knowledge and experience.
The involvement of ICOM at the local and regional levels results in smoother-running organisation, greater effectiveness of projects and increased relevance.
Each region is unique, and provides the basis for a unique practice that is nevertheless consistent with the integrated goals of ICOM's activities.