On 26 June 2024, ICCROM convened its annual Member States Information Briefing. 

The gathering provided an opportunity to introduce Member State representatives to ICCROM’s ongoing work and achievements, focusing on ICCROM's impact and stories of change from around the world. These efforts lay the groundwork for a brighter future for ICCROM and the heritage conservation sector as a whole, as we are preparing for our new Strategic Framework 2026-2031. 

In her presentation, Director-General Aruna Francesca Maria Gujral expressed gratitude to Member States for their support. She highlighted ICCROM’s nearly 70-year mission to help countries preserve, conserve, and restore heritage, emphasizing its continued relevance.   

“Our Vision is for a world in which cultural heritage in all its forms is intrinsically linked with progress, wellbeing, growth, and sustainability. Our mandate transcends borders and brings globally recognized solutions to local needs,” she stated. 

Success stories from ICCROM programmes were shared, highlighting the impactful and diverse ways participants have applied their accrued knowledge to real-world scenarios. For example, Jasna Popovich, Croatia, implemented fire risk mitigation strategies learned through ICCROM PREVENT training, or how Chileshe Chewe from Zambia, integrated her country’s culture into her food products after participating in ICCROM’s Youth.Heritage.Africa programme. We also shared an example from Getbol, Korean Tidal Flats, where through People Nature Culture course we looked at biodiversity conservation and how it is crucially linked to sustainable livelihoods and the way of life of the local community. These examples demonstrate the transformative power of ICCROM's capacity-building initiatives, which equip individuals with the knowledge and skills to make meaningful contributions to their communities and beyond. 

“Through the conservation, safeguard, and celebration of cultural heritage in all its forms, we aim to gear towards more resilient and sustainable societies, inclusivity, and socio-economic growth, both locally and globally,” stated ICCROM Director-General. 

We thank all those who joined us and welcome you to continue keeping in touch throughout the year as we work together to protect our heritage for a better world