2025全球博物馆公共资金状况研究报告：现实挑战及创新策略_165页_6mb

Summary of the Document: DECREASE IN PUBLIC FUNDING? A worldwide answer from Museums

Core Content

This document presents a comprehensive analysis of the decline in public funding for museums globally, conducted by the International Research Alliance on Public Funding for Museums (IRAPFM), led by the Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM). The study was initiated by ICOM-IMREC, the international research and exchange partnership of ICOM and Shanghai University, and aims to understand the financial challenges museums face and the strategies they adopt to remain sustainable.

Main Findings

• Global Decline in Public Funding:
  There has been a worldwide decline in public funding for museums, accelerated by the 2008 financial crisis and the Covid-19 pandemic. Even when budgets appear stable, inflation and increased responsibilities have led to a real decrease in available funds.
• Shift to Self-Financing and Hybrid Models:
  Museums are increasingly relying on private donations, corporate sponsorships, and revenue-generating activities to compensate for declining public support. Governments are pushing for more self-financing efforts, leading to the development of hybrid funding models.
• Digital Transformation and Community Engagement:
  The pandemic accelerated digital initiatives, including online platforms, virtual tours, and digital exhibitions. Community engagement through outreach and education has become essential for maintaining relevance and securing local support.
• Regional and Institutional Disparities:
  National museums generally receive more stable funding compared to smaller institutions. Funding disparities are influenced by political and economic contexts, as well as the themes and types of museums, which can affect their financial support.
• Increased Competition:
  The expansion of the heritage field and the rise of private museums have intensified competition for funding. This has created a two-tiered funding system, with public museums at a disadvantage.
• Cultural Diplomacy:
  Museums play a critical role in cultural diplomacy, but this aspect is often underestimated or overlooked by governments, limiting their support and funding opportunities.
• New Responsibilities and Definitions:
  The new ICOM definition of museums includes broader roles such as inclusivity and sustainability, which have increased the financial and operational demands on museums. This has led to the need for additional funding and resources.

Proposed Calls for Action

1. For Museums:
   • Diversify funding sources by integrating private donations, corporate sponsorships, and revenue-generating activities.
   • Embrace digital tools and community-focused initiatives to build a loyal visitor base and enhance financial resilience.
2. For Governments:
   • Implement multi-year grants adjusted for inflation.
   • Provide resources for digital transformation and ensure equitable funding across all museum types.
   • Increase transparency in funding allocation and support long-term planning.
   • Recognize and promote the role of museums in cultural diplomacy.
3. For ICOM:
   • Advocate for increased and equitable public funding globally.
   • Develop guidelines and best practices for museums to improve self-financing and resilience.
   • Support digital and community engagement initiatives.
4. For Civil Society:
   • Actively advocate for museums at all levels of government.
   • Support museum associations and participate in museum activities.
   • Promote the educational and cultural missions of museums.

Key Strategies and Innovations

• Digital Transformation: Museums are leveraging digital platforms to remain accessible and relevant.
• Community Engagement: Outreach and educational programs are being used to strengthen local ties and attract support.
• Hybrid Funding Models: Combining public and private funding is becoming a common strategy.
• New Revenue Streams: Museums are exploring entrance fees, shops, and space rentals to generate income.
• Adaptability: Despite financial pressures, museums are showing resilience and innovation in their approaches.

Conclusion

The report emphasizes the urgent need for a sustainable financial framework for museums worldwide. It calls for diversified funding strategies, greater government support, and proactive advocacy to ensure the survival and growth of the museum sector. The findings also highlight the importance of further research to address the evolving financial landscape and the expanding roles of museums in society.

Structure of the Report

• Chapter I: Quantitative analysis based on responses from 59 ICOM National Committees.
• Chapter II: Qualitative analysis with responses from 119 museums across six world regions.
• Chapter III: Discussion of future challenges, including financial sustainability, ethical considerations, and environmental responsibility.
• Chapter IV: Proposed calls for action for museums, ICOM, governments, and civil society.

Acknowledgements

The study was initiated and funded by ICOM-IMREC. It was supported by a global consortium of experts from various regions, including Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean, North America, and Oceania. The Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM) played a central role in coordinating the research, with contributions from museum associations, researchers, and professionals worldwide.

Regional Contributions

• Africa: Led by Catherine Snel from South Africa.
• Asia: Led by Yang Jin from Shaanxi Normal University, China, with assistance from other researchers.
• Europe: Led by Xavier Roigé from Universitat de Barcelona, Spain.
• Latin America and the Caribbean: Led by Luciana Menezes de Carvalho from UNIRIO, Brazil.
• North America: Led by Marc Lajoie from Musée national des Beaux-Arts du Québec, Canada.
• Oceania: Led by Conal McCarthy from Victoria University of Wellington, Aotearoa/New Zealand.