A statement of concern from the NEMO board closed the recent conference of the European Museums Network. At the conference, network members discussed the ever-increasing trend of polarisation in European societies and its impact on the museum sector.
The conference highlighted the difficult position museums currently find themselves in, often resulting in undue pressure on their operations. These discussions complement the results of a survey carried out by NEMO in August 2024. The survey highlights the fact that political pressure, both direct and indirect, sometimes leads museums to self-censorship in their programming and communication, particularly in the case of sensitive issues.
The museum community is concerned that the complex and evolving trends of social polarisation and distrust in the current context may lead to a critical erosion of the position of European museums as trusted institutions, undermining their ability to act impartially and operate independently.
According to a statement from the NEMO Executive Committee, network members discussed how they can respond to such conditions and how they can navigate an increasingly polarised world while upholding values that contribute to just and more cohesive societies. "Museums have a unique obligation to their communities and to society at large to present fact-based, authentic, and independent information. NEMO is committed to upholding these principles in its work with museums and museum organisations in Europe” the statement said.
Read the full statement here.
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Photo: Manfred Werner
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