International Museum Day 2025: The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities
Every year, on 18 May, the International Council of Museums (ICOM) organises International Museum Day (IMD), a global event highlighting the transformative role of museums in society. In 2025, IMD will explore "The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities", focusing on how museums can navigate and contribute to a world undergoing profound social, technological, and environmental shifts.
MUSEUMS AS CATALYSTS FOR CHANGE
Museums are more than spaces of preservation-they are active participants in shaping sustainable and inclusive communities. This year's theme aligns with three Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
- SDG 8: Museums support local economies by creating employment opportunities and offering educational programs that empower communities.
- SDG 9: By fostering creativity and embracing technological advancements, museums drive innovation and enhance accessibility.
- SDG 11: Museums contribute to sustainable urban development by acting as cultural hubs that promote inclusion, resilience, and heritage preservation.
(Source: ICOM)
Macao International Museum Day 2025 - Imagining the Lighthouse: Contest of Handicraft and its Story
Organizers: Communications Museum, Macao Science Center & Maritime Museum
The Guia Lighthouse, located at the top of Guia Hill on the Macao Peninsula, is the oldest modern lighthouse along the coast of China and serves as the geographic coordinates of Macao on world map. The lighthouse not only guides navigation but also symbolizes hope and enlightenment, playing an important role in technology, communication, and maritime transportation. To celebrate the International Museum Day 2025, this contest encourages participants to use the Guia Lighthouse as a creative muse, combining storytelling and handicraft to create unique works. Through the theme of the lighthouse, we hope to highlight the educational role of museums in providing insight and guidance, while fostering community attention and affection for our city.
Deadline for Application: From now until 22:00 on April 21, 2025 (Monday)
Deadline for Submission: From now until 17:00 on April 23, 2025 (Wednesday)
Regulations Application Form
What is IMD
The International Council of Museums (ICOM) established International Museum Day in 1977 to encourage public awareness of the role of museums in the development of society.
From America to Oceania, through Europe, Asia and Africa, International Museum Day (IMD) is a special moment for the global museum community. On this day, participating museums interpret an issue affecting cultural organisations. International Museum Day is also a fantastic opportunity for museum professionals to meet their public. Museums are at the heart of the system, institutions that serve and develop society.
More...
What is ICOM
Created in 1946, ICOM (International Council of Museums) is the only international organisation representing museums and museum professionals on a global level.
ICOM is an international non-governmental organisation maintaining formal relations with UNESCO. Within the United Nations, ICOM has a consultative status with the Economic and Social Council.
More...
