Code of Ethics

ICOM Code of Ethics for museums

Ethics and museum professionals’ exemplary practices are essential for ICOM.

ICOM Code of Ethics for museums was adopted in 1986 and revised in 2004. It establishes the values and principles shared by ICOM and the international museum community. It is a reference tool translated to 36 languages and it sets minimum standards of professional practice and performance for museums and their staff.

By joining ICOM, each member commits to respect this code.

ICOM Statutes

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ICOM's Statutes are an essential document for the organisation. ICOM's rules clarify and complete these Statutes.

The Statutes are the foundations of the organisation and its functioning. They specify the objectives, the mission and the organisation of the structure.

The new version of this essential document was adopted in 2007 during the 21st General Conference in Vienna (Austria).

Article 12 - 12. Bureau

The Bureau consists of the following:

  1.    a President
  2.    two Vice-Presidents
  3.    a Treasurer


The President is elected by the triennial General Assembly for a three (3)-year term of office and can be re-elected for a second term of the same duration. The President sets the strategic orientations for the activities of ICOM in its capacity as an international organisation representing museums and museum professionals. The President represents ICOM in all civil acts. The signature of the President binds ICOM in agreements with third parties. The President convenes and chairs the meetings of the General Assembly and the Executive Council.

The two (2) Vice-Presidents are elected by the triennial General Assembly for a three (3)-year term of office and can be re-elected for a second term of the same duration. The Vice Presidents carry out the functions and tasks assigned to them by the President, they provide any assistance required by the latter and, in his/her absence, convene and chair meetings.

The Treasurer is elected by the triennial General Assembly for a three (3)-year term of office and can be re-elected for a second mandate of the same duration. The Treasurer establishes the guidelines necessary for the financial policy of ICOM, in collaboration with the Director General, for the approval of the Executive Council, examines the financial results of ICOM, and reports periodically to the Executive Council and the Advisory Committee.

The Bureau of the Executive Council (composed of officers) may address urgent issues and provide ad hoc solutions. All actions taken by the Bureau will be reported to the full Executive Council at the earliest opportunity, with an explanation of the emergency and the subsequent action.