The General Assembly is held every three years at the same time as the General Conference, and all ICOM members are invited to participate. As the supreme governing body of ICOM, the General Assembly adopts the Strategic Plan, elects the Executive Council and gives it directions concerning the operations of ICOM.

The General Conference is held at the same time and place as the General Assembly. It is the meeting point par excellence for all who actively participate in the organisation and is open to all members of ICOM. During the conference, participants receive and consider a report on the activities of ICOM for the preceding triennium, and its draft programme for the following triennium. During the plenary session, museum professionals reflect upon the role of museums, choosing a specific theme as the basis for their discussion. Resolutions arising from the discussions are submitted to the General Assembly.