On 24 May 2025, at the Podlasie Opera and Philharmonic in Białystok, the winners of the prestigious European museum awards presented by the European Museum Forum were announced. The title of European Museum of the Year 2025 was awarded to Manchester Museum.

 The event was organized by the European Museum Forum (EMF) and hosted by the Sybir Memorial Museum, recipient of the 2024 Council of Europe Museum Prize.

 Held from 21 to 24 May in Białystok, the EMYA conference offered an inspiring gathering of museum professionals from across Europe and a valuable opportunity for exchange and dialogue.

 “We are here thanks to the Sybir Memorial Museum, which speaks with both sensitivity and resolve about the experience of deportation, memory, and identity. This proves that modern museums are not just guardians of the past — they are active participants in shaping the future. Museums today play a vital role in society. This year’s nominees demonstrate that a museum is a place that shapes identity, fosters culture, and embraces inclusivity and connection,” said Hanna Wróblewska, Poland’s Minister of Culture and National Heritage, during the EMYA2025 ceremony.

“For a few days, Białystok has become the capital of Polish, European, and perhaps even global museology. The city hosted a conference that enabled the exchange of knowledge, the building of new relationships, and likely many behind-the-scenes meetings. I hope this event will bring lasting benefits,” added Tadeusz Truskolaski, Mayor of Białystok.

 The event opened with Sybir Memorial Museum Day, during which participants had the opportunity to tour the permanent exhibition, accompanied by guides and survivors of Soviet-era deportations. Attendees also took part in workshops on topics such as international cooperation, communication and marketing, and academic research.

 The following days were dedicated to conference presentations under this year’s theme: “Remembrance and Solidarity for Collective Action”. From 22 to 24 May, participants showcased their museums on the stage of the Podlasie Opera and Philharmonic, engaging a large and attentive audience.

 “The theme of this year’s conference highlights the role of museums as platforms for fostering cultural participation, social justice, and democracy. We heard outstanding speakers who reflected not only on the importance of memory in today’s world, but also on the essential value of collective action in the museum field,” said Hans Looijen, acting Chair of the EMF Board of Trustees.

 On Saturday evening, 24 May, during a festive gala, the European Museum of the Year 2025 was announced, along with the winners of several other award categories.

MEET THE WINNERS!

Manchester Museum, awarded the title of European Museum of the Year 2025, has become more accessible following its modernization and gained new spaces that foster relationships with the local community and promote intercultural dialogue. The institution boldly revisited its mission by confronting its own history and redefining the role of its collections and public programmes. As a university museum, it conducts research and actively engages in social justice initiatives. Particular recognition is due to its collaborative approach with diverse social groups, resulting in narratives that are multi-voiced, inclusive, and authentic.

Beyond the main winner, on Saturday evening, the recipients of awards in five additional categories were also announced.

The Museum Prize of the Council of Europe – awarded for promoting intercultural dialogue and efforts to protect human rights – was presented to Euskararen Etxea, the House of the Basque Language. The award ceremony, granted by the Culture Committee of the Parliamentary Assembly, took place on 7 April 2025 at the Palais de l’Europe in Strasbourg.

Euskararen Etxea is dedicated to the intangible heritage of the Basque language. The institution offers insights into its significance, evolution, and role in shaping identity and community. Euskararen Etxea ensures accessibility by providing content in Basque, Spanish, French, and English. This multilingual approach not only allows a diverse audience to engage with the exhibition but also highlights the interconnections between European languages and cultures. The centre encourages visitors to explore similarities and mutual influences among languages, fostering a deeper understanding of Europe’s linguistic diversity.

The Kenneth Hudson Award, recognizing institutional courage and professional integrity, was bestowed upon Nini Sanadiradze, former Director General of the Museums Association of Tbilisi.

Nini Sanadiradze demonstrated unwavering commitment to defending democratic principles. Her leadership exemplifies resilience and dedication to social justice, alongside consistent efforts to create spaces conducive to social integration. Her courage inspires museum professionals worldwide, reminding us of the fundamental role museums play in upholding democracy, human rights, and social values in an increasingly challenging global context.

The Portimão Museum Award, celebrating exceptional hospitality, inclusivity, and the fostering of a sense of belonging, was given to the Istanbul Museum of Modern Art (Istanbul, Türkiye).

The Istanbul Museum of Modern Art serves as a space for reflection and dialogue on the evolving culture and society. Its extensive educational activities, conducted in cooperation with local schools among others, reflect its commitment to building an inclusive society. Programs addressing gender equality, empowerment, sustainability, and creativity ensure every visitor feels recognized and welcome. Through consistent efforts in education, accessibility, and dialogue between local and international art, the museum plays a vital role in Istanbul’s cultural life.

The Silletto Prize, awarded for activities fostering community engagement, was granted to the Alvor Lifeguard Interpretative Centre (CISA) (Portimão, Portugal).

CISA is a dynamic community hub actively supporting and preserving traditional fishing practices. By enabling residents to co-create exhibitions, the museum reflects their own lives, work, and heritage. This institution exemplifies how museums can serve as crucial centres of social engagement and guardians of cultural identity.

The Meyvaert Museum Award, recognizing efforts towards environmental sustainability, was awarded to MUZOO (La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland).

MUZOO is an innovative museum space exploring the relationship between humans and the natural environment. Its exhibitions – both permanent and temporary – address biodiversity and sustainable development, offering unique experiences through direct contact with animals. MUZOO manages a city park and zoo, promoting new approaches to animal welfare and engaging the community in caring for local fauna. Its strong commitment to environmental issues makes it an important partner for conservation organizations and citizen science initiatives.

On Saturday evening, Special Commendations were also announced for the following museums:

• Museum Ovartaci (Aarhus, Denmark)
• The Korsak’s Museum of Ukrainian Modern Art. (Музей Сучасного Українського Мистецтва Корсаків) (Lutsk, Ukraine)
• İşbank Museum of Painting and Sculpture (Istanbul, Türkiye)
• Magyar Zene Háza (Budapest, Hungary)
• Wien Museum (Vienna, Austria)
• Maria Callas Museum (Athens, Greece)
• Museum Arnhem (Arnhem, Netherlands)

Special Commendations are awarded to museums that have introduced innovative solutions in selected areas of their public activity, becoming sources of inspiration and best practice models for other museum institutions across Europe.

EMYA 2025 demonstrated that museums throughout Europe share a common mission – to nurture memory, support communities, and boldly respond to contemporary challenges.