4 May 2023 Sandra Becker and Susanna Ånäs

ICOM new Museum Definition embraces Living Heritage[edit]

International Museum Day brings together museums and cultural institutions from around the world to celebrate the important role they play in our communities. It is a global event that recognizes the contributions of museums to education, cultural exchange, and the preservation of our cultural heritage. It's a great opportunity for people to explore and appreciate the many fascinating exhibits and collections that museums have to offer.

Wikimedia Switzerland coordinates a program of events that focuses on two topics

Theme for the 2023 International Museum Day Museums, Sustainability and Wellbeing.
ICOM'S new Museum Definition that was approved by the Extraordinary General Assembly of ICOM in 2022.

A museum is a not-for-profit, permanent institution in the service of society that researches, collects, conserves, interprets and exhibits tangible and intangible heritage. Open to the public, accessible and inclusive, museums foster diversity and sustainability. They operate and communicate ethically, professionally and with the participation of communities, offering varied experiences for education, enjoyment, reflection and knowledge sharing.

Museum and wiki experts comment the new museum definition.

On 18 May, GLAM digital event kicks off the International Museum Day. The event addresses the new definition of museums and supports the sustainable work of cultural memory in a time shaken by crises. How can objects in collections be preserved and protected for the future? How digital can a museum be in the future?

Learn more and join!