Over sixty active years in the field of cultural heritage conservation worldwide have shaped ICCROM’s core philosophy and values. Though times may change, these values remain the framework for the organization’s way of working.

Neutrality -  ICCROM strives to ensure that its objectives and activities will transcend agendas and partiality. This is especially important at a time when cultural heritage is increasingly the target of political, religious and ideological movements.

Inclusivity - When considering conservation issues, ICCROM ensures that all stakeholders are identified and included. A people-centred approach, with gender equality, is particularly promoted to improve local communities’ resilience and participatory decision-making. Moreover, ICCROM embraces all types of heritage and is inclusive of ideas and knowledge, integrating a broad range of disciplines and concepts into its work.

Diversity - ICCROM promotes diversity in its approach to conservation and knowledge sharing, in its respect for the different forms, types and ideas of heritage, and in its appreciation for the diversity of people and culture. Evidence of this is provided through ICCROM activity venues, participants and resource persons.

Sustainability - ICCROM is committed with sustainable development and implements relevant and innovative heritage conservation activities to respond to environmental impact, improve education and stimulate economic growth. ICCROM promotes cultural heritage sustainability as a precondition to meet sustainable development. Moreover, ICCROM encourages measures to reduce carbon footprint within the institution.

Accessibility - ICCROM is approachable and non-elite. It is committed to making knowledge openly accessible and strives to ensure that all regions of the world are served.

Flexibility - ICCROM adapts to a variety of contexts and responds quickly to the needs of Member States addressing emerging cultural heritage issues.

Empowerment - ICCROM foster the empowerment of stakeholders involved in heritage conservation through capacity building, partnership, networking, and the quality and relevance of the knowledge produced.

Accountability and Transparency - ICCROM works to ensure reliable and clear auditing and reporting on its strategy, activities, financial management, operations and performance, including efficiency in the use of resources. ICCROM promotes principles of transparency and accountability to enhance its own governance and practices, and fulfil its mandate and responsibilities in an objective manner.

Ethics and Compliance 

ICCROM is committed to an environment where open, honest communications are the expectation, not the exception.