The International Council of Museums (ICOM), in partnership with UNESCO, has launched a global survey to better understand how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is being used across museums worldwide. Institutions of all types and sizes are invited to contribute by completing the online survey by 21 July 2026.
Participate in the Survey
The global survey on AI in museums is an initiative stemming from strengthened cooperation between UNESCO and ICOM. Its primary goal is to gather concrete examples and foundational data on how museums worldwide are currently integrating AI into their operations, shedding light on the transformative impact of AI on the museum sector.
Ethical Frameworks and Standards
A key aspect of the survey is to examine the alignment of AI applications in museums with established international ethical guidelines. This includes adherence to the UNESCO Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence (2021) and the ICOM Code of Ethics for Museums, ensuring that technological advancements respect professional and moral standards.
Global Reach and Accessibility
To foster comprehensive global participation and ensure diverse perspectives are captured, the survey has been made available in multiple languages. It supports ICOM’s three official languages (English, French, and Spanish) as well as UNESCO’s six official languages (Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, and Spanish), encouraging institutions from all regions and contexts to contribute.
Anticipated Outcomes and Future Impact
The data collected from this survey will be instrumental in the creation of a joint UNESCO–ICOM report. This forthcoming publication will provide an evidence-based overview of existing practices, highlight significant challenges faced by museums regarding AI, and present practical case studies from around the globe. Ultimately, the findings will guide the development of future museum policies and inform capacity-building activities undertaken by both UNESCO and ICOM, supporting the sector's ethical and effective integration of AI.
