The ICOM Definition of a Museum

A museum is an institution that gathers and displays cultural artifacts, and is generally open to the public. Its mission is to preserve the cultural heritage of humanity, including its intangible heritage, for future generations. The current definition is non-profit, open to the general public, and aims to acquire, communicate, and exhibit the heritage of mankind. An alternative definition was proposed in 2007 that argued museums are polyphonic spaces of critical dialogue.

The definition was based on the expressed need for consultation. The ICOM General Conference in 2022 will vote on it. The process is divided into 11 steps, involving consultations with stakeholders, and lasts for 18 months. The proposed schedule starts on December 10, 2020 and ends in early May 2022, but this may be adjusted depending on the circumstances. A final version of the document is expected to be submitted to the ICOM General Conference in 2022.

The new definition is based on the consensus reached by the Standing Committee for the Museum Definition at the ICOM General Conference in 2022. There have been four rounds of consultation and 11 steps, with each step lasting between two and four years. A draft of the new definition will be presented to the ICOM General Conference in 2022 for a vote. However, the proposed schedule may need to be modified to address any issues that emerge. This is not the final word on the definition of a museum.

As part of its ongoing work, ICOM has developed a new methodology for defining a museum. It now seeks to make the process more democratic, transparent, and inclusive by addressing the needs of the general public. The proposed timeline is 18 months long, starting on December 10 of this year and ending in early May of 2022. During this period, it is expected to produce a final report on the definition of a museum.

The new definition of a museum was based on the consensus reached by the Standing Committee for the Museum Definition in 2017. During this time, the committee will continue to engage in discussions and formulate a final version of the definition that will be presented to the General Conference in 2022. A draft of the new ICOM Museum Definition will then be ready for voting at that time. The proposed schedule will run for approximately 18 months and include 4 rounds of consultations. It is also likely to be modified according to circumstances.

The goal of a museum is to preserve, protect, and display the artifacts and exhibits that represent human history around the world. Objects in a museum represent knowledge and understanding of human civilization and are a representation of the beauty of different cultures. The purpose of a museum is to serve the general public and researchers. It may also be a research center or an educational center. Despite its many uses, a museum is an institution that is both educational and enriching for the community.