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The 3rd UNESCO High-Level Forum for Museums: A Global Perspective on Cultural Heritage

On April 24, 2025, the 3rd UNESCO High-Level Forum for Museums officially kicked off in the vibrant city of Hangzhou, in the Zhejiang Province of China. This significant event attracted participants from over 60 countries, highlighting the evolving role of museums in our increasingly interconnected world.

Opening Remarks

The forum was inaugurated with opening statements from distinguished figures including Ernesto Ottone R., the Assistant Director-General for Culture at UNESCO, Gao Zheng, the Vice Minister of Culture and Tourism and Director of the National Museum of China, and Zhao Cheng, who serves as a Standing Committee Member of the Zhejiang Provincial Party Committee. The Mayor of Hangzhou, Yao Gaoyuan, also graced the event. Their comments set a positive tone, emphasizing the need for collaboration and innovation within the museum sector.

Forum Highlights

This year’s forum presents a rich agenda featuring keynote speeches, thematic discussions, interactive sessions, and field visits. Notably, representatives from prestigious global institutions such as the Château de Chantilly in France and the National Museum of Colombia shared their insights on critical topics.

Key Themes of Discussion

Among the key topics discussed were:

• - The Evolution and Transformative Role of Museums: This session explored how museums have adapted to meet contemporary challenges, including climate change and cultural shifts.
• - Digital Technology and AI Applications: As technology progresses, museums face pressure to incorporate digital tools into their practices. This discussion highlighted innovations that can enhance visitor experiences and operational efficiencies.
• - Museums as Educational Hubs: Delegates debated the significant role museums play in lifelong learning, advocating for increased outreach programs and community involvement.
• - Virtual Museum of Looted Artifacts: One of the most pressing conversations focused on the ethical implications of looted artifacts and the concept of virtual museums to address these issues.

Furthermore, the forum featured technology showcases and discussions on other pressing issues shaping the museum landscape's future.

A Diverse Attendee Base

More than 190 participants, including museum directors, subject-matter experts, and policymakers, from various institutions came together to share knowledge and experiences. This diverse group highlights the importance of global cooperation in preserving and promoting cultural heritage.

Looking Ahead

The forum will run until April 25, 2025, with key outcomes to be presented during the 2025 World Conference on Cultural Policies and Sustainable Development in Spain later this year. This linkage underscores the need for ongoing dialogue and collaboration among cultural institutions worldwide.

In conclusion, the 3rd UNESCO High-Level Forum for Museums in Hangzhou serves as a platform for vital conversations about the future of museums, addressing how they can continue to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing world. The commitment shown by participants to enhance cooperative efforts signifies a promising future for cultural institutions globally.