Intangible Cultural Heritage

Description of the programme / policy

This policy focuses on identifying, safeguarding, and promoting intangible cultural heritage around the world, including oral traditions, performing arts, social practices, rituals, and festivals. Website

Main objective of the programme/policy

1. Broaden the Definition of Cultural Heritage: The main goal is to expand and redefine the concept of cultural heritage beyond monuments and physical objects to include intangible aspects, such as oral traditions, performing arts, social practices, rituals, festive events, and knowledge related to nature, the universe, and traditional crafts.
2. Preserve Cultural Diversity: Intangible cultural heritage is recognized as an essential factor in maintaining cultural diversity in the face of globalization. The main objective is to preserve and celebrate diverse cultural expressions and practices.
3. Promote Intercultural Dialogue: Understanding and valuing intangible cultural heritage of different communities promotes intercultural dialogue and mutual respect for various ways of life, contributing to social cohesion.
4. Emphasize Knowledge Transmission: The primary focus is on the transmission of knowledge and skills from one generation to the next. The value lies in the wealth of knowledge and skills passed down through intangible heritage.
5. Relevance to All Communities: Intangible cultural heritage is considered relevant for minority groups and mainstream social groups within a state. It is emphasized that this heritage is significant for both developing and developed states.

Specific objective of the programme/policy

1. Traditional and Contemporary: Intangible cultural heritage encompasses both inherited traditions from the past and contemporary practices, involving diverse cultural groups.
2. Inclusivity: It is inclusive and shared among communities and groups, regardless of geographic or cultural boundaries. It contributes to a sense of identity, continuity, and social cohesion.
3. Representative and Community-Based: Intangible cultural heritage is valued not only for its cultural significance but also for its deep roots in communities. Recognition and preservation depend on the communities, groups, or individuals that create, maintain, and transmit it.