The theme for the 2026 Triennial Conference is:
Cultural Connections in Conservation
Cultural connections are at the heart of why we conserve heritage. These connections—whether societal, professional, or temporal—are vital for understanding and preserving the cultural identities embodied in material culture. As global changes and societal shifts accelerate, the need to respect and advocate for diverse voices and communities, including Indigenous cultures, has become ever more critical.
In light of new challenges and opportunities, the 2026 ICOM-CC Triennial Conference will explore how conservation can embrace inclusive collaborations, adapt to changing contexts, and ensure that conservation knowledge is accessible and impactful. By integrating ethical approaches, interdisciplinary methods, and innovative technologies, conservation can play a pivotal role in bridging divides and fostering connections.
Meeting in Oslo in September 2026, we aim to answer questions such as:
- How can conservation establish new and renew existing professional connections to address global challenges?
- How can conservation navigate temporal connections between the past, present, and future understandings, and uses of material culture?
- How can conservation help advocate for diversity and cross-cultural communication?
- How can conservation help to bridge inter-generational cultural divides?
