Dear colleagues, members, and friends of the museum community,

As President of the International Council of Museums (ICOM), I am delighted to address you on the occasion of International Museum Day 2023. This year, we gather under the inspiring theme of “Museums, Sustainability, and Well-being,” a subject of utmost significance in our ever-evolving world.

Every year, on the 18th of May since 1978, the international museum community comes together to connect with the public and shine a spotlight on the vital role of museums in serving society and fostering its development. Furthermore, I would like to highlight that since its inception in 1978, ICOM has proudly maintained a cherished tradition of creating an International Museum Day poster each year. These posters serve as vibrant representations, capturing the essence of the theme and encapsulating the spirit of our global celebration. As an example here is the 1978 IMD poster created by the ICOM National Committee of Romania:

Poster IMD 1978 © ICOM National Committee of Romania

This celebration was established by ICOM with the purpose of spreading awareness about how museums serve as important platforms for cultural exchange, enriching cultures, promoting mutual understanding, cooperation, and peace among people. Today, this objective remains just as relevant and important as ever.

As museum professionals, let us embrace this year’s theme wholeheartedly. Let us explore innovative ways to integrate sustainability into our operations, exhibitions, and programming. Let us strive to create inclusive spaces that promote well-being and prioritize the needs and voices of all individuals and communities.

International Museum Day 2023 is not only an opportunity to celebrate our achievements but also to rededicate ourselves to the principles of sustainability and well-being. Let us inspire one another, fostering a network of support and learning within the international museum community.

I invite you all to join ICOM and its network of more than 50,000 members in celebrating the transformative International Museum Day.

Thank you for your unwavering commitment to the museum field, and I wish you all a joyous and impactful International Museum Day 2023!