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 23 - 23. Income and Disbursements

Section 1. Income.  The financial resources of ICOM consist of the following:

  1. subscription fees paid by the Members,
  2. income from ICOM assets and activities,
  3. grants and private donations, received directly, and contributions from the ICOM Foundation,
  4. payments received within the framework of contractual agreements for services rendered by ICOM.

Section 2. Disbursements
Expenditure of ICOM funds may be made only in accordance with the annual budget prepared under the guidelines established by the Treasurer and approved by the Executive Council.