ICOM adopts its revised Code of Ethics for Museums

Paris, 25/06/2026

The International Council of Museums (ICOM) announces the adoption of the revised ICOM Code of Ethics for Museums, a landmark step in strengthening the ethical framework that guides museums and museum professionals worldwide.

On 25 June 2026, the 41st Ordinary General Assembly voted to adopt the revised ICOM Code of Ethics for Museums. The vote marks the culmination of a multi-year participatory process led by the ICOM Ethics Committee (ETHCOM) under the supervision of the ICOM Executive Board and involving consultations with ICOM’s National and International Committees, Regional Alliances, and Affiliated Organizations across the world.

The revised Code of Ethics establishes a universal ethical framework that guides museums and museum professionals in protecting and promoting cultural heritage, fostering and strengthening public trust, and serving society. Grounded in shared ethical principles, it supports museums in safeguarding, researching, and responsibly managing collections while ensuring sustainable and conscientious governance.

The revision reflects the evolving role of museums in a rapidly changing world and aligns the Code with the Museum Definition adopted by the ICOM Extraordinary General Assembly in 2022. It responds to key challenges facing museums today, including the rise of digital technologies, the climate crisis, and the ongoing need to address the legacies of colonialism through responsible and ethical museum practice. Recognising the diversity of museums worldwide, the revised Code establishes common ethical principles while allowing flexibility for implementation across different cultural, legal, professional, and resource contexts. The revised text will be supported by practical guidance to assist museums and museum professionals in applying these principles in their daily work.

The adoption of the revised Code marks an important milestone for ICOM and the global museum community. Building on the collaborative spirit that characterised the revision process, ICOM will keep at the heart of its work the engagement with its members to support the implementation, foster dialogue, and ensure that the Code remains responsive to the evolving realities, challenges, and needs of museums and museum professionals around the world.