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NEMO Barometer on political influence in museums in Europe

30 Jan 2025

NEMO, the Network of European Museum Organisations, has shared the results of their study, conducted in 2024, examining the extent to which European museums face pressures from various political groups seeking to shape narratives around history, identity, and values, and how professionals within these institutions navigate such challenges.

The NEMO Barometer on political influence in museums in Europe provides a snapshot of these challenges, confirming that political influence is affecting the sector. It highlights how societal polarisation is placing intense and often uncontrollable pressure on museum operations, threatening their independence and reputation as impartial institutions.

The responses confirm the concern of the museum community that growing political influence on museums can significantly weaken the functioning and reputation of European museums as reliable institutions, jeopardising their capacity to work impartially and maintain their independence.