Today, International Museum Day is celebrated worldwide. In many countries, museums are moving away from the classic “buy a ticket – enter” model to more modern and flexible systems. Discussions continue in Azerbaijan regarding increasing interest in museums and attracting young people to these spaces.
Elnara Akimova, a member of the Culture Committee of the Milli Majlis, told Modern.az that museums are one of the most important places that keep the memory of the people alive:
“Museums are memory. Every exhibit preserved in that spiritual area is a carrier of the people's memory, history, and spiritual identity. But as time changes, people's lifestyles, interests, and approach to culture also change.”
The deputy noted that in modern times, museums no longer function only as places where exhibits are displayed:
“Today, world museums are no longer just quiet halls and showcases. They are becoming vibrant, dynamic cultural spaces that attract people. That is why in many countries, the classic 'buy a ticket – enter' model no longer meets the demands of modern times.”
According to Elnara Akimova, unified museum cards and discount systems applied in a number of countries around the world could also generate interest in Azerbaijan:
“Today, unified museum cards are used in many European cities. People can visit various museums for months with one card. In some countries, special free days are organized for students and young people, night museum projects are implemented, and even thanks to digital entry systems, people enter museums with a code on their phone.”
The deputy believes that the creation of a unified museum card system in Azerbaijan can contribute to both tourism and increased cultural interest:
“For example, the creation of a unified museum card system in Azerbaijan could be a very successful step. People can easily visit various museums from Baku to Shusha, from Ganja to Nakhchivan by obtaining one card. This would have a significant impact on the development of tourism and on increasing people's interest in history.”
She stated that new approaches are needed, especially to increase the interest of young people in museums:
“We must admit that traditional approaches are no longer sufficient to increase the interest of the younger generation in museums. Modern people want a more interactive, more comfortable, and more accessible system.”
The deputy emphasized that the “night museums” project could also generate interest in Azerbaijan:
“Imagine illuminated museum halls, music programs, interactive presentations, live historical performances in the quiet of the night... This is not just looking at an exhibit, it can be said to be living history.”
Elnara Akimova also noted the importance of applying digital technologies:
“Mobile applications, audio guides, virtual reality capabilities, electronic tickets would create convenience for modern people and make museums more attractive. The world is already digitizing, and museums must also be part of this change.”
According to the deputy, changing the museum entry system is not only a technical innovation but also a renewal of the attitude towards culture.
