The director of Moderna Museet, Gitte Ørskou, acknowledged a lack of clear guidelines on expenses related to bribery after her trip to Qatar, suggesting the museum should have covered the costs itself.
Gitte Ørskou, the director of Moderna Museet, has come under scrutiny after taking a trip to Qatar to attend celebrations for the 50th anniversary of the country’s national museum. This trip has highlighted a significant issue within the museum: the absence of clear policies regarding bribery and corruption. In her response to the situation, Ørskou stated that it would have been more appropriate for the museum to bear the expenses of her travel, indicating an awareness of the ethical implications involved in accepting such invitations from foreign dignitaries.
The controversy centers on the fact that Ørskou received an invitation from the sister of Qatar's ruling emir, Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, raising concerns about the nature of such hospitality, particularly in a country where democratic values are non-existent. Critics may argue that accepting invitations from significant figures in oppressive regimes could tarnish the museum’s reputation and erode public trust. The lack of established guidelines within the institution amplifies the issue, as it raises questions about accountability and the measures in place to prevent potential conflicts of interest.
As the museum grapples with these revelations, there is a pressing need for clearer governance surrounding travel and expenses involving international engagements. Ørskou’s comments suggest a readiness to reflect on the situation, but whether measures will be taken to implement necessary reforms remains to be seen. This incident could serve as a catalyst for the museum and other cultural institutions to reevaluate their ethical frameworks, avoiding similar situations in the future.
