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 before on July 21, 2026.
The survey aims to gather real-world examples, background information and data on how museums around the world are using AI in their operations. It also examines how museums are guided by the 2021 UNESCO Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence and the ICOM Code of Ethics for Museums.
Available in all six official UNESCO languages, the survey also seeks to identify opportunities and address existing needs related to the use of AI by museums in various institutional and geographic 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 by UNESCO and ICOM. It will provide an evidence-based analysis of current practices, highlight key trends and challenges, and present case studies.
Furthermore, the report will contribute to the development of operational recommendations and policies for UNESCO Member States and museum professionals, in line with the 2015 UNESCO Recommendation concerning the protection and promotion of museums and collections, their diversity and their role in company.Â
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.
