The ICOM Definition of a Museum | A Step Toward Inclusivity

Abstract

The ICOM Definition of a Museum
A Step Toward Inclusivity

Pérez Armiño Luis
Reyes Bellmunt Teresa

In August 2022, the International Council of Museums (ICOM) approved a definition of a museum that is appropriate for the 21st century. The new wording was developed through a participatory process involving professionals from the museum field. The current definition adds to its previous functions that museums should be accessible and inclusive spaces, promote diversity and sustainability, encourage community participation, and constitute spaces for reflection and knowledge exchange. This process highlights basic issues that demonstrate its complexity: the new approved definition is the result of deep reflection, characterized by a participatory and open methodology. Likewise, the new concept, faithful to the tradition and structure that has dominated the definition of the institution in terms of identifying the objective elements that distinguish the museum, introduces a novel perspective that transcends these limits. Finally, the need to renew the concept and adapt it to new social demands has been demonstrated by the broad consensus.

*For the sake of clarity and understanding, this document also draws on texts taken from the ICOM website as well as the authors’ article.

*Also attached is the “Guide to the Definition of a Museum – ICOM Defines,” which was created to promote a conceptual and practical understanding of each term in the ICOM definition of “museum,” with the aim of inspiring meaningful action.

Keywords: Museum; ICOM; Definition; Methodology; Renovation; Accessibility