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 28 - 28. Dissolution

Section 1. Authority for Dissolution
Members of ICOM may decide to dissolve the Organisation through a decision taken at an Extraordinary General Assembly by a three-fourths (75%) majority of the Members present or represented.

All Members must be duly convened, in compliance with Section 4 of Article 10.


Section 2. Assets of the Organisation
Any assets owned by ICOM at the time of dissolution shall be transferred, in consultation with UNESCO and in accordance with the provisions of the French 1901 law relating to associations, to an organisation having similar aims to those of ICOM.