Intangible Cultural Heritage

Intangible Cultural Heritage is the global wealth of cultural traditions and practices, which UNESCO is dedicated to safeguarding for future generations.

Intangible cultural heritage includes the practices, knowledge, and expressions that communities recognize as part of their cultural identity, along with associated objects and spaces. Transmitted through generations, this heritage adapts over time, reinforcing identity and respect for cultural diversity. The2003 UNESCO Convention emphasizes the need to safeguard these cultural expressions for future generations.

19th session of the Intangible Cultural Heritage Committee

The nineteenth session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage will take place inAsunción, Republic of Paraguay from Monday 2 to Saturday 7 December 2024.

More information

Access to the webcast

UNESCO’s 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage proposes five broad ‘domains’ in which intangible cultural heritage is manifested:

1. Oral traditions and expressions

including language as a vehicle of the intangible cultural heritage.

2. Performing arts

such as traditional music, dance and theatre.

3. Social practices

rituals and festive events.

4. Knowledge and practices

concerning nature and the universe.

5. Traditional craftsmanship

explore

Visit the Convention website

To find out more about intangible cultural heritage.

UNESCO Helps Future Generations Safeguard Intangible Heritage

"Respecting heritage is not only about safeguarding it now; it is also about making it known to future generations. This means ensuring that young people can appropriate heritage, take pride in it, and renew it."Audrey Azoulay, UNESCO Director-General

Discover

What is Intangible Cultural Heritage?

UNESCO’s 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage proposes five broad ‘domains’ in which intangible cultural heritage is manifested:

Thumbnail