International Museum Day (IMD) is annually observed across the globe on May 18 to promote the importance of museums as cultural institutions and to create awareness about the role of museums in society and their contribution to education, cultural exchange, and heritage preservation.
- The theme of the International Museum Day 2023 observed on 18th May 2023 is “Museums, Sustainability and Wellbeing”.
Objective:
The day aims to raise awareness about the fact that Museums are an important means of cultural exchange, enrichment of cultures and development of mutual understanding, cooperation and peace among peoples.
Background:
i. International Museum Day was created by the International Council of Museums (ICOM) in 1977 following the adoption of a resolution by the ICOM General Assembly in Moscow, Russia, to create an annual observance to highlight the role of museums in the development of society on an international level.
ii. ICOM has been organising International Museum Day since 1977.
Key Highlights:
i. ICOM plans to highlight the vital role that museums play in promoting sustainable development and well-being in IMD 2023.
ii. Museums can help educate the public on significant global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and social inequality and encourage action towards positive change.
iii. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) can be achieved in many different ways, from promoting inclusivity and promoting climate action to addressing social isolation and improving mental health.
iv. Since 2020, IMD supports a set of goals from the SDGs of the United Nations (UN). In 2023, it focuses on SDG 3 (Global Health and Well-being), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 15 (Life on Land).
Events 2023:
i. Museums across the globe will participate in the IMD by hosting events, exhibitions, and activities that explore the theme of sustainability and well-being.
ii. These events will showcase how museums are working to reduce their environmental impact, promote sustainable practices, and educate the public on the importance of sustainability.
About the International Council of Museums (ICOM):
President- Emma Nardi (Italy)
Headquarters- Paris, France
Establishment- 1946
