Missions and objectives
The International Council of Museums is an international organisation of museums and museum professionals which is committed to the research, conservation, continuation and communication to society of the world’s natural and cultural heritage, present and future, tangible and intangible.
What is ICOM
ICOM is a membership association and a non-governmental organisation which establishes professional and ethical standards for museum activities. As forum of experts, it makes recommendations on issues related to cultural heritage, promotes capacity building and advances knowledge. ICOM is the voice of museum professionals on international stage and raises public cultural awareness through global networks and co-operation programmes.
- 53 576 professionals
- in over 129 countries and territories
- with 120 national committees
- and 34 international committees
- 8 Regional Alliances
- 21 Affiliated Organisations
ICOM is the only global organisation in the museum field.
ICOM’s Missions
ICOM has five main missions:
- establish standards of excellence
- lead a diplomatic forum
- develop a professional network
- lead a global think tank
- carry out international missions
ICOM’s Strategic Plan 2022-2028
The ICOM 2022-28 Strategic Plan was approved at the 37th General Assembly, held on August 24th during ICOM Prague 2022. The Plan was drafted by the Strategic Plan Standing Committee, which designed this plan following a participative process that involved ICOM Members, the Advisory Council, the Executive Board and the Secretariat.
ICOM Statutes
The Statutes of the International Council of Museums is the basic document of the Organisation. The Internal Rules of ICOM and the ICOM Code of Ethics for Museums define and complete these Statutes.
