Project Title: The New Museum Definition Adoption and Implementation Framework
Acronym: ICOM Museum Definition 2022
Coordinator / Supervisor: International Council of Museums (ICOM) / Professor Georgios Papaioannou (Ionian University Representative & Dissemination)
Type of Funding: Institutional / Global Governance
Funding Source: ICOM International & Member State Contributions
Dates: 2022
Project website
Project overview
According to the official announcement by the Ionian University, the International Council of Museums (ICOM) approved a transformative new definition during its Extraordinary General Assembly in Prague on August 24, 2022. This update marks a significant shift in how museums are perceived in the 21st century.
The Official Text:
The International Council of Museums (ICOM) approved a new museum definition in Prague in 2022. The new definition emphasizes that museums are not-for-profit, permanent institutions serving society, involved in researching, collecting, conserving, interpreting, and exhibiting tangible and intangible heritage. It states that museums are open to the public, accessible, and inclusive, promoting diversity and sustainability. The definition also highlights that museums should operate ethically and professionally, with community participation, offering various experiences for education, enjoyment, reflection, and knowledge sharing.
This updated definition reflects a global collaborative effort involving museum professionals. It replaces the previous definition from 2007, aiming to address contemporary societal challenges.