ICOM and UNESCO renew commitment to protect cultural heritage through strengthened partnership

In a landmark moment for the global cultural heritage community, ICOM and UNESCO proudly celebrated the signing of a renewed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris. This important agreement marks a new chapter in the longstanding collaboration between the two organisations.

This MoU reflects a reinforced commitment to joint action and mutual support in key areas of shared interest. These include cultural heritage protection, education, and the integration of new technologies – three pillars that were highlighted by ICOM President, Emma Nardi, as central to both ICOM’s and UNESCO’s missions. The renewed MoU sets the stage for joint initiatives, the exchange of expertise, and strengthened advocacy efforts on a global level.

The ceremony took place on the sidelines of the meeting of States Parties to the 1970 UNESCO Convention on the Means of Prohibiting and Preventing the Illicit Import, Export and Transfer of Ownership of Cultural Property, where the announcement of the renewed MoU was met with enthusiasm and recognition of its significance. Delegates welcomed the news, reflecting the growing attention being paid to museums in broader discussions on heritage protection

Mr. Ernesto Ottone, UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Culture, stated that the strengthened partnership also reflects the increasing recognition of museums as vital social actors and knowledge hubs, highlighting their growing relevance in the context of key international instruments, including the 2005 Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions. Responding to this, ICOM President Emma Nardi underlined that the ICOM Museum Definition (2022), which places communities at the heart of museum practice, fully embraces this broadened social and cultural role. She emphasized that museums serve as dynamic spaces shaped by and for communities.

With museums playing a growing role in education, sustainability, and community engagement, both UNESCO and ICOM expressed deep excitement and optimism for the opportunities this renewed agreement opens, viewing it as a historic step forward in their partnership.

From ICOM, the signature ceremony was attended by the ICOM Director General, the Principal Legal Advisor, and the Impact and Innovation Section Manager, who accompanied the ICOM President.