Each year since 1977, International Council of Museums (ICOM) has organised International Museum Day on May 18. International Museum Day was officially established with the adoption of a resolution during the ICOM General Assembly in Moscow, Russia to create an annual event “with the aim of further unifying the creative aspirations and efforts of museums and drawing the attention of the world public to their activity". Definition of Museum A museum is a not-for-profit, permanent institution in the service of society that researches, collects, conserves, interprets and exhibits tangible and intangible heritage. Open to the public, accessible and inclusive, museums foster diversity and sustainability. They operate and communicate ethically, professionally and with the participation of communities, offering varied experiences for education, enjoyment, reflection and knowledge sharing. Objective The objective of International Museum Day (IMD) is to raise awareness about the fact that, “Museums are an important means of cultural exchange, enrichment of cultures and development of mutual understanding, cooperation and peace among peoples.” International Museum Day 2026 - Museums Uniting a Divided World As places of learning, museums contribute to peaceful coexistence and mutual respect. The theme highlights the potential of museums to act as bridges across cultural, social, and geopolitical divides, fostering dialogue, understanding, inclusion and peace within and between communities worldwide. Museums are trusted public spaces where people encounter stories, objects and one another. In times of social fragmentation, polarisation, and unequal access to knowledge and culture, museums help rebuild connection across generations, across communities, and across borders, fostering dialogue, understanding, inclusion, and peace within and between communities worldwide. The theme “Museums Uniting a Divided World” highlights the potential of museums to act as bridges across cultural, social, and geopolitical divides, fostering dialogue, understanding, and peace within and between communities worldwide. Museums do not erase differences but create conditions in which differences can be understood and handled with respect: by safeguarding heritage and memory, offering learning and reflection, and providing welcoming spaces where diverse voices can be heard. Open and accessible, museums foster diversity and sustainability. Source : International Council of Museums Celebrations in India The Ministry of Culture steers the celebration across its museums in the country. The National Museum (New Delhi), National Gallery of Modern Art (New Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru), Allahabad Museum (Prayagraj), Indian Museum (Kolkata), Victoria Memorial Hall (Kolkata), Salar Jung Museum (Hyderabad) and Science cities and centers under National Council of Science Museums (in 24 locations across India) undertake special initiatives to commemmorate the day. Source : Ministry of Culture