Ethics Q&A: Adoption of code
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Q:
Our museum would like to join the Museums Association as an institutional member. Is it a requirement of our membership that our governing body formally adopt the MA's Code of Ethics?A:
No, but we recommend that you do. To do so demonstrates that you willingly adhere to a set of common standards widely upheld in the museum community. Adoption of the code of ethics for museums binds you to that community both nationally and internationally. Formally adopting the code also encourages members of governing bodies to make themselves aware of the code and how they can help in steering a prudent course through the many areas of potential ethical difficulty that all museums face.
Not adequately negotiating these areas of difficulty will have practical, often bottom line legal and financial implications for museums. It is worth stressing this point when encouraging your governing body to become aware of and formally adopt the code of ethics for museums.
