The Law on Museums in the Republic of Armenia establishes a comprehensive legal framework for the regulation and management of museums. This law defines the types and functions of museums, setting standards for their operation to ensure the preservation, study, and public dissemination of cultural heritage.
Key aspects of the law include:
Definitions and Concepts: The law provides clear definitions for essential terms such as museums, cultural values, museum objects, and museum collections. A museum is characterized as a non-commercial entity or its subdivision dedicated to collecting, preserving, studying, and publicizing both material and intangible cultural heritage. Cultural values encompass artifacts and works with archaeological, historical, artistic, or scientific significance.
Museum Collection Management: It details the processes for forming, replenishing, and accounting for museum collections. This includes the main register of the museum, which records detailed information about each object and collection, ensuring systematic documentation and accountability.
Preservation and Security: The law mandates the creation of scientifically based special protection regimes to safeguard the integrity of museum objects and collections. This includes measures to prevent damage and mitigate risks.
Public Access and Education: Museums are tasked with publicizing their collections through exhibitions, educational programs, and various forms of media. The law underscores the importance of making cultural heritage accessible to the public and integrating it into educational initiatives.
Museum Workers’ Rights and Responsibilities: It outlines the roles and duties of museum workers, emphasizing their involvement in the socio-cultural, scientific research, and educational missions of museums. The law also stresses the need for professional training and interdisciplinary cooperation to enhance museum work.
Special Collections: It addresses the management of collections of special value and exceptional importance, requiring specific contracts for their preservation. These collections are considered inalienable and are integral parts of the nation’s cultural heritage.
Overall, the law aims to preserve Armenia’s rich cultural heritage, promote public engagement with cultural artifacts, and ensure the effective management and operation of museums through a structured legal approach.
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