The UNESCO and the International Council of Museums (ICOM) have joined forces to launch a global survey on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in museums. Museums of all types and sizes worldwide are invited to complete the online survey by July 21, 2026.
The survey aims to gather concrete examples, reference information, and data on how museums around the world are using AI in their operations. It also examines how museums are guided by the UNESCO 2021 Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence and ICOM’s Code of Ethics for Museums.
Available in the six official languages of UNESCO, the survey also seeks to identify opportunities and address existing needs related to the use of AI by museums in various institutional and geographical contexts.
The results of the survey will be presented in a joint UNESCO-ICOM report on the use of AI in museums, which will guide future capacity-building efforts led by UNESCO and ICOM. It will provide evidence-based analysis of current practices, highlight key trends and challenges, and present case studies.
Additionally, the report will contribute to the development of operational recommendations and policies for UNESCO member states and museum professionals, in line with the UNESCO 2015 Recommendation concerning the Protection and Promotion of Museums and Collections, their Diversity and their Role in Society.
UNESCO and ICOM encourage all museum professionals to participate in this initiative to better understand how AI can shape practice and support the evolving role of museums in society.
