ROME — National delegations from 139 member states gathered at the FAO headquarters this week for the 34th Session of the ICCROM General Assembly, establishing a new strategic direction for global cultural heritage conservation.
The three-day assembly served as a platform for strategic decision-making and international cooperation, focusing on the protection of heritage amid a rapidly shifting global landscape. As the highest governing body of the International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property, the assembly reviewed institutional progress and reinforced collective efforts to support conservation professionals and local communities.
A primary outcome of the meeting was the unveiling of the ICCROM 2026-2031 Strategic Plan. The six-year roadmap introduces the CARE framework — Conserve, Activate, Recognize — designed to modernize the organization and position heritage as a foundation for community resilience and sustainability.
Our heritage is not a luxury, it is a lifeline, said Aruna Francesca Maria Gujral, ICCROM director-general. It connects generations, fosters peace, and drives social cohesion, resilience and development. In a world of uncertainty, it is our anchor.
The organization reported significant growth in global engagement over the last two years, marked by the addition of San Marino and Uzbekistan as member states. Officials noted that ICCROM’s greatest strength remains its capacity-building initiatives, which they characterized as a strategic form of development assistance that yields high returns on investment by empowering local institutions and skills.
The assembly also featured three thematic events addressing modern global priorities:
- Traditional Craftsmanship in Africa: The launch of a multi-year initiative to connect heritage conservation with youth employment and sustainable livelihoods.
- Illicit Trafficking: A review of evolving threats to cultural property and the need for improved technology-driven responses and international cooperation.
- Culture-Climate Nexus: A discussion on integrating culture into climate and disaster risk policies to bolster community-led adaptation.
As ICCROM nears its 70th anniversary, the adoption of the new strategic plan marks a defining moment for the organization. Leadership officials stated the move will deepen ICCROM’s relevance and amplify its role in heritage innovation and knowledge sharing worldwide.
