In an era defined by accelerating change and mounting global challenges, cultural heritage endures as a vital foundation – a source of continuity, connection, and resilience for communities worldwide. For nearly 70 years, ICCROM has worked to uphold and promote the value of heritage as a common good that benefits all of humanity. While our mission remains unchanged, the landscape in which we operate is evolving rapidly. To remain relevant and impactful, ICCROM must adapt with foresight and purpose.
This Strategic Plan comes at a time of significant transition for the heritage sector. The threats facing cultural heritage are becoming more complex and interconnected, while the expectations placed on those who protect it continue to grow. In this context, ICCROM must take a longer view – not only responding to the challenges of today but anticipating those of tomorrow.
Our Strategic Plan 2026–2031 charts a clear course for the years ahead, grounded in our vision of ‘CARE’ – to Conserve, Activate, and Recognize the full potential of heritage. This vision affirms heritage as a dynamic and transformative force: one that can strengthen communities, protect our planet, and enrich human well-being. Developed through extensive consultation and underpinned by robust evidence and strategic foresight, this Strategic Plan establishes a framework for ICCROM to navigate complexity, enhance its relevance, and deliver meaningful results for our Member States. It provides the overarching direction for our work, enabling more integrated planning, cross-cutting collaboration, and outcomes focused programming.
The Strategic Plan also signals a broader organizational evolution. It aligns with ongoing efforts to strengthen governance, modernize internal systems, enhance strategic partnerships, and invest in our people and infrastructure. Together, these changes reinforce our commitment to accountability, effectiveness, and long-term sustainability.
This six-year strategy marks a defining phase in ICCROM’s journey. It invites us to think boldly, act decisively, and collaborate widely to unlock the power of heritage for addressing the needs of our time. I invite our Member States and Partners, to embrace the bold vision and the derived pathways of change of the Strategic Plan 2026–2031 as a shared commitment – to protect our shared cultural legacy, to harness its potential for the future, and to ensure that ICCROM continues to lead with integrity and vision in a rapidly changing world.
Aruna Francesca maria Gujraj
ICCROM Director-General