ICOM UK Conference 2026: Museum Diplomacy in Action
Schedule
Thu Apr 16 2026 at 09:00 am to 05:00 pm
UTC+01:00Location
Oxford Museum of Natural History, University of Oxford | Oxford, EN
About this Event
The Early Bird Sale is live!
General sale and Livestream tickets available from 23rd February
Museum Diplomacy in Action takes place on 16–17 April 2026 in Oxford, exploring the unique role of museums as cultural diplomats in an increasingly complex world.
Museums today operate on a global stage, tackling shared challenges and playing a vital diplomatic role as trusted public institutions that shape narratives, foster cultural exchange and build understanding across borders. Positioned between heritage, knowledge and public engagement, they are uniquely placed to act as powerful agents of cultural diplomacy - especially when formal channels are strained. The ICOM UK Conference 2026 brings this to life through practical, real-world examples of museums in action, showing how they bridge divides, address global issues, spark collaboration and strengthen international relationships. Delegates will leave inspired, confident and ready to step into their own role as cultural diplomats.
The conference unfolds across five beautiful, centrally located venues: Oxford University Museum of Natural History, the Ashmolean Museum, the Museum of Oxford, the Pitt Rivers Museum, and the History of Science Museum. All are within easy walking distance, creating an inspiring setting for two days of discussion and collaboration.
For full programme details and updates, visit our website.
We are greatful to our partners and sponsors for their invaluable contributions and support that have made this conference possible – ; ; ; ; and
ICOM UK’s 2026 Annual Conference programme is co-curated with ICOM Canada’s , co-editor of Museum Diplomacy: How Cultural Institutions Shape Global Engagement.
Day 1: 16th April
🕑: 09:30 AM - 10:00 AM
Welcome Addresses
🕑: 10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Keynote 1
🕑: 10:30 AM - 11:20 AM
Session 1: Thematic case studies based on sub-theme followed by discussion
🕑: 11:20 AM - 11:50 AM
Break and sponsor marketplace
🕑: 11:50 AM - 12:40 PM
Session 2: Thematic case studies based on sub-theme followed by discussion
🕑: 12:45 PM - 01:45 PM
Lunch break
🕑: 01:45 PM - 02:15 PM
Keynote 2
🕑: 02:15 PM - 03:05 PM
Session 3: Thematic case studies based on sub-theme followed by discussion
🕑: 03:05 PM - 03:35 PM
Break and sponsor marketplace
🕑: 03:40 PM - 04:30 PM
Session 4: Thematic case studies based on sub-theme followed by discussion
🕑: 04:30 PM - 05:00 PM
Keynote 3
🕑: 05:00 PM - 05:15 PM
Closing Remarks
🕑: 06:00 PM - 08:00 PM
Evening Reception
Day 2: 17th April
🕑: 08:45 AM - 09:15 AM
Arrivals
🕑: 09:15 AM - 10:15 AM
ICOM UK's Annual General Meeting
🕑: 10:15 AM - 10:45 AM
Final Workshop sign-up
🕑: 10:45 AM - 12:15 PM
Session 1: Workshops / Walking Tours / Museum Tours
🕑: 01:00 PM - 02:30 PM
Session 2: Workshops / Walking Tour / Museum Tour
🕑: 03:00 PM - 04:30 PM
Session 3: Workshops / Walking Tour / Museum Tour
🕑: 04:30 PM
Close
Where is it happening?
Oxford Museum of Natural History, University of Oxford, Parks Rd, Oxford, United KingdomEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
GBP 81.00 to GBP 405.00
