Silk, Gold and Speed: The Living Wine Horses of Caravaca

Every year from 1 to 3 May, the people of Caravaca de la Cruz in the Region of Murcia gather for the Wine Horses, a central tradition of the festivities dedicated to the Santísima y Vera Cruz. The horse is the protagonist of a sequence of activities that begins with its care throughout the year and culminates in its presentation, parade and celebrated ascent toward the castle. The most distinctive moment of the tradition is the enjaezamiento, the elaborate dressing of the horse in a complete set of embroidered pieces made with silk, coloured threads, gemstones and gold and silver ornamentation. Each set is specially produced for its horse and represents months of artistic and collective work.The celebration brings together two knowledge systems that have long been connected to the identity of Caravaca: horse breeding and wine-growing. On 2 May, four caballistas run alongside each horse during the timed ascent of the steep Castle Hill, creating a demanding demonstration of coordination between people and anima

Castells and the Living Tradition of Catalonia

Castells are human towers constructed by members of amateur colles castelleres, especially during annual festivities in towns and cities across Catalonia. Participants climb onto one another in carefully coordinated levels, while the pinya, a dense circle of supporters at ground level, provides the foundation. The upper levels, known as the pom de dalt, are formed by younger children, whose lightness allows the tower to reach its highest point. The enxaneta, traditionally a child, crowns the structure and signals its completion. Traditional clothing, including the faixa sash, white trousers and each colla's distinctive shirt, forms part of the practice. Music is inseparable from the performance. Players of the gralla, a traditional Catalan wind instrument, accompany the construction and provide an audible rhythm for the changing stages of the tower. The practice developed from eighteenth-century festive traditions in the Tarragona area and became an independent cultural expression during the nineteenth centur

Eleventh session of the 2003 Convention’s General Assembly on 17 and 18 June 2026

The eleventh session of the General Assembly of the States Parties to the Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage will be held at UNESCO Headquarters, Paris, from Wednesday 17 to Thursday 18 June 2026. Over the course of two days, States Parties will gather to discuss key priorities for the future implementation of the Convention, with a view to strengthening international cooperation and supporting States and communities worldwide in safeguarding and transmitting their living heritage.The main items on the agenda include: the reports to the General Assembly by the Intergovernmental Committee and by the Secretariat on their respective activities (January 2024 to December 2025), the proposed revisions to the Operational Directives for the implementation of the Convention, the Plan for the use of the resources of the Intangible Cultural Heritage Fund in 2026 and 2027, the accreditation of new non-governmental organizations, as well as the election of twelve new Committee members.An I

ICH NGO FORUM - 2026 Newsletter

The first newsletter of the year from the ICH NGO Forum has been published.This edition introduces key updates on the Forum’s future direction, including the upcoming General Assembly in Paris, the expected accreditation of new NGOs to the 2003 Convention, and ongoing efforts to strengthen the Forum’s strategy and internal governance.It also highlights the valuable contributions of the Working Groups, whose dedication continues to support the Forum’s collective work in safeguarding intangible cultural heritage.We invite everyone interested in intangible cultural heritage and international cooperation to read the newsletter and stay engaged with the Forum’s activities.Read the Newsletter : [Click here]

“Let’s give back to the villages what belongs to the villages.” - Transmission of the Hungarian folk song as an intangible cultural heritage in the Tápió region

The folk music research of the Tápió region in Pest County, as an ethnographic landscape, began in the early 1800s. As a result of the continuous work of folk music researchers, over the past 225 years, more than 1,500 local folk songs have been documented in 21 settlements of the region. The settlement folk songs of more than 400 local singers have been recorded, which is the unique intangible cultural heritage of the region. Songs related to local customs, folk games, lamentations, songs of notable days, old-style folk songs, new-style folk songs, and contemporary "nóta" works documented by the 60 folk music researchers. By the 21st century, only a few people in the settlements, the oldest, sang local folk songs. Saving local folk songs, having the oldest people sing them, and getting to know the complete documentation, collections, and recordings in scientific institutions became an important task. In 2009, Dr. József Terék, a native of the Tápió region, undertook the task of following in the footsteps of

Hungarian string band tradition

The Hungarian string band tradition is one of the country’s defining ensembles and one of the most common representatives of folk music culture. The basic fiddle-viola-bass line-up takes many forms across regions and eras and can be expanded to include additional string players or reed instruments. Up until the middle of the twentieth century, string bands provided music for village parties, family and village festivities, agricultural events and religious and public holidays. Today, they play a crucial role in stage performances, local festivities such as dances, and urban táncház (“dance-house” or folk dance parties). A group’s repertoire can include thousands of melodies, which village musicians play entirely from memory. In addition to memory-based oral transmission, melodies are now also acquired in formal educational settings using written transcriptions and audio-visual documentation. Because Hungarian string bands have always adapted to the social context, the melodies, lyrics, playing style and reper

Táncház method: a Hungarian model for the transmission of intangible cultural heritage

The Táncház (‘dance-house’) model of teaching folk dance and music combines traditional forms of acquisition with modern pedagogical and academic methods. Participants acquire dance knowledge from experienced members or tradition bearers by direct observation and imitation, to the accompaniment of live music, while using their own individual level of creativity to develop their competence and dancing ability. The dancing is complemented by singing instruction, handicraft activities and ethnographic presentations. Anyone regardless of age, competence or prior exposure can become an active participant. The aim is to establish a value-based, community-building, entertaining yet educational form of recreational activity through the practice and transmission of intangible cultural heritage. Táncház methods are also utilized in art schools and all levels of education, and influence folk dance and music performance. An annual National Táncház Festival and Fair constitutes the largest meeting of bearers, mediators an

Csárdás dance tradition

The csárdás is a Hungarian dance that is performed by couples consisting of a man and a woman, or, in some regions, of two women. Multiple couples participate in the dance at the same time, forming one large or several smaller circles. Each region has its own themes, gestures and figures, which are improvised according to well-known, established rules and patterns. The csárdás is a universal favourite in both village and urban dance traditions, and is performed during weddings, community events, folk dance events and on stage. It is often accompanied by a string band consisting of violins, violas and double basses. The practitioners are amateur and professional dancers who learn through formal education or folk dances. The csárdás is an expression of the self-organizing and cohesive power of communities. Dancers also sing and must pay attention to their partner as well as to surrounding couples. The partners learn to think jointly as they co-create the dance. The acquired skills can be applied to everyday lif

Dar Maschkar min kloukn and Da Jutalan - The ritual masks of Timau-Tischlbong of Paluzza (UD) - Italy

The archaic masquerade is part of the culture and history of a German-speaking community that settled in 1284 in what is now the Paluzza area.Among the ritual figures of this masquerade is "Dar Maschkar min kloukn," who wears a fur coat reminiscent of the agricultural world. He has fir branches tucked into his hat and between the buttons of his shirt. His face is blackened with soot, which he also uses to smear the faces of those he encounters along the way, as well as grease them with the grease from the rind tied around his waist. He has a cowbell tied to his back, which he rings rhythmically as he moves. This mask does not enter homes and wanders around the village during the day.Another ritual figure of the Timau masquerade is "Da Jutalan," who wears a white dress decorated with colorful handkerchiefs and his face is covered. He travels in a group from house to house, carrying an accordion, where he performs three dances. If he stays, he must identify himself by uncovering his face. His pilgrimage takes p

Rölar, Kheirar and Rikè - The ritual masks of Sauris-Zahre (UD) - Italy

The archaic masquerade is a product of the culture and history of a German-speaking community that settled there around the 13th century. Propitiatory rituals were once repeated several times a week, from Epiphany onward, while today the celebration focuses particularly on the "Night of the Lanterns." The main masks of this rite are the Rölar and the Kheirar.The Rölar wears dark clothing, his face covered in soot, and shouts and shakes the bells around his waist to announce the start of Carnival and drive away evil spirits with their din.The Kheirar, or King of Masks, has his face covered by a wooden mask and in the past would knock on the doors of homes with a broom made of sorghum. Once inside, he would sweep the floor, performing a propitiatory rite to sweep away the burdens of winter and make way for the arrival of spring.Spring is represented in the procession by the "beautiful mask" of the Rikè, whose face is covered by a veil and adorned with bells, which awaken the spirits, and colorful ribbons that o

Ròllate - The ritual masks of Sappada-Plodn (UD) - Italy

The Rollate is a totemic zoomorphic character even if by now he appears more human because of his typical large moustached wooden face. Armed with a broom (and once also accompanied by Clowns), he goes around the streets of the hamlets, rhythmically shaking his large rattle, the rollen that gives him his name. He visits the houses and brings good fortune with his cumbersome presence in fur and the particular and affected use of his voice which is believed to be that of the ancestors. The Sappada Carnival is also distinguished by the fact that it celebrates the period for a greater length over three Sundays dedicated specifically to the peasants, the poor and the gentry.Text by Gianluigi Secco

La Gnaga - The ritual masks of Fornesighe di Val di Zoldo (BL) - Italy

The 'historical' masquerade at Fornesighe is the only remaining one in the Val Zoldana where the elderly still remember others. The figure of the Matazin, who opens the parade accompanied by a fiery black devil, has been dying out in favour of that of the 'gnaga' who is, therefore, the fruit of a recent tradition even if there is evidence of similar characters in Italy, at least in the eighteenth century. It regards the allegory of the 'Old' who makes way for the 'New', namely the Power that passes on to the new adult generation represented by the Conscript who, as such, acquired the rights and obligations arising out of his new social condition28. In practice, the youth seems to be carried in a pannier by an old woman which, in reality, is tacked on later on the front of the figure. Other typical characters in the parade are the Doctor and the Wet nurse with an infant, the Woman from Ampezzo with the Gentleman, the Godfather and the Godmother and the 'Coco' charged with collecting eggs in the customary colle

Olt da Riva - The ritual masks of Rivamonte Agordino (BL) - Italy

The heart of this masquerade are the wooden faces of the handsome and the ugly, which are common throughout the Dolomites, but here they stem from a unique story: in the early 1900s, in the hamlet of La Spia di Rivamonte, Crispino Selle lived. He carved grotesque, disturbing, and highly realistic faces. These soon became known throughout the Agordino valley, and many people began to go see them.In 1947, a group of young people met in a local carpenter's workshop and decided to continue the tradition, following in Crispino's footsteps, creating less frightening, more colorful, and certainly technically inferior faces to Selle's artistic works. In honor of tradition, the masks were called Olt da Riva, and the young people of Rivamonte began wearing them during the Carnival season.In 2020, this masquerade was officially revived for Carnival, again by the town's young people, with more or less recent masks, but always with a traditionalist spirit.Text by Antonio Gheno

Marascons, Laché e Bufon - The ritual masks of Val di Fassa (TN) - Italy

Traditionally, in the Fassa Valley, "the carnival is unleashed" on January 17th, the feast of Saint Anthony the Abbot. The leading masks of the procession are the Laché, the Bufon, and the Marascons, followed and surrounded by masks or faceres (faces) representing beauty and ugliness, the positive and negative aspects of the collective imagination or the most deeply rooted and specific popular imagination of the area. During the carnival, the Laché lead the way for the Marascons, who, with a skipping step, make three counterclockwise turns for good luck. Meanwhile, the Bufon, who is the only mask allowed to speak, acts as a jester, comically embarrassing those present.The masks/faceres are all strictly wooden, unique pieces, usually carved from Swiss pine and painted with oil paints. Some time ago, only a few mask makers were able to consistently and imaginatively produce Ladin carnival masks, but in recent years, thanks to the willingness and sensitivity of some local sculptors or decorators/artists, the sch

Žinghenésta - The ritual masks of Canale d'Agordo (BL) - Italy

On Shrove Tuesday in the Canale d'Agordo area of the Alto Agordino they celebrated the Zinghenésta (Gipsy), an innovative female character of good omen for abundance who appeared in the middle of the second half of the nineteenth century. The other characters in the procession on the other hand seem to be orthodox and original and are completely similar to types found elsewhere (Matiéi, Laché, Paiazi and Puster). Of interest is the final part of the rite when some youths, dressed as murderers, carried out robberies and sacked the houses, but at the end they were released and allowed to keep what they stole. It is highly probable that these would be conscripts whose freedom of action corresponded to a form of recognition that they were the new power force in the community. Also present and well described are masks of the ugly type whose behaviour is similar to those of the Pagliacci and included the Puster, the Spazzacamin and the Ber who beat cowbells and sticks rhythmically to 'call the grass'. Then in the a

Matacink e Laké from Laste and Matazin from sottoguda - The ritual masks of Rocca Pietore (BL)

The Matacink in this area differ substantially because of the form of the tall hat that also identifies the natural area they belong to.The Matacink from Laste travel in pairs with their own Laké who do not wear tall hats and who are also responsible for collecting and offering grappa to those visited. Pairs of characters are formed for every hamlet. The Matacink were able to ask the parents of the girls to let them go to the ball under their own responsibility and in this case refusal was not allowed. The Matazin from Sottoguda also had a retinue of Sfrofignatori (soot throwers) or similar characters who contaminated anyone found outside or in the houses during visits with black, and they were accompanied by a chief mask character who presided over and commanded the dances.Text by Gianluigi Secco

Matazin e Laché - The ritual masks of Selva di Cadore (BL) - Italy

The great masquerades are also remembered in Val Fiorentina and direct recollections of the local Mata have been obtained from old people. Of significance, however, is an old photograph that encapsulates the soul of all the characters mentioned and where we can also see the use of a hat-veil instead of a black or white mask.Text by Gianluigi Secco

Matazin, Laché e Matazère - The ritual masks of Comelico Superiore (BL) - Italy

The group of archaic masks is guided by Matazin and Laché who are equal characters with gaudy (regal) clothes, rich in bright veils and coloured ribbons. They wear a high tube made annually, richly adorned with precious stones, pearls, mirrors and gold which were once collected from the families to whom they were returned at the end of the holiday. They carry the sceptre of their authority in one hand and sweets for the bystanders in the other. They wear sweet-sounding rattles and must stay in motion by walking or dancing together. They leap face to face during the dance and this pairing is their most significant action. The Matazins are accompanied by Clowns who soil the bystanders with ashes and control them with a staff.During the ball in the square, the 'Mata' dance with women among the public as a good omen for fertility and sometimes accept the invitation of some man who yearns even more for luck. The group of old characters travel separately from the rest of the procession with the group of musicians w

The Breath of Tradition: Digital Preservation and Social Transmission of the Bulgarian Gaida

The focus of this candidacy is the Bulgarian bagpipe tradition, specifically the "gaida" – a traditional woodwind instrument that has been a cornerstone of Bulgarian identity for centuries. This element belongs to the domain of "performing arts" and "traditional craftsmanship," as it encompasses not only the mastery of performance but also the specialized knowledge of constructing the instrument and maintaining its authentic repertoire.In Bulgaria, the gaida is more than a musical instrument; it is a symbol of communal life, present in every ritual, celebration, and social gathering. The specific focus of my work is the Strandja bagpipe style, known for its deep, melodic ornamentation and its unique role in the preservation of the folklore of Southeastern Bulgaria.It is important to note that "Bagpipe playing and musical knowledge in Bulgaria" was officially inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in December 2025. This heritage is characterized by a complex

Global Results Framework Working Group meeting

Dear Working Group Members In 2025 we worked on the  Toolkit for mapping thematic areas and a  Tool to map thematic areas where an NGO works. At the IGC at New Delhi we had presentations on Culture as a Goal related indicators and also survey findings on contribution of NGOs to different thematic areas. Our first Global Results Framework Working Group meeting in 2026 is on March 10, 2026, 2-3 pm CET.Please Join Zoom Meetinghttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/85368486200?pwd=x5z9rybWarKuWCvyTsRfEIUQVSdhSf.1Meeting ID: 853 6848 6200Password: 848866 Objectives are broadly- to discuss and plan actions for the Global Results Framework working group for 2026 - to solicit new members to join the coordination team - invite interest in chairing/steering the group. IGC presentations and survey findings are available in this folderIGC 20.COM New DelhiThanks & Regards

Culture as a Cross-cutting Resource in Emergencies: Strengthening Humanitarian Action through Cultural Approaches

French version below / Version française ci-dessous : Dear colleagues, I have the pleasure of inviting you to the roundtable: Culture as a Cross-cutting Resource in Emergencies: Strengthening Humanitarian Action through Cultural Approaches The roundtable will be held online on Thursday, 5 March 2026, from 15:00 to 16:00 CET (Paris). Organized by UNESCO as part of the 2026 Humanitarian Networks and Partnerships Week (HNPW), this roundtable will explore how living heritage, cultural and artistic practices can support psychosocial recovery, social cohesion, and community resilience in emergency contexts.Building on UNESCO's experience and programmes in the field of culture and emergencies and in the context of the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, the discussion will present evidence-based insights from projects implemented in Colombia and Gaza, as well as projects with Ukrainian people temporarily displaced in Romania, and populations based in refugee camps in Greece. Spe

Chinese New Year in Tor Pignattara: An Intercultural Community Celebration Rooted in Living Heritage

On March 1, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., the neighborhood of Tor Pignattara in Municipio Roma V (Rome) will host the first edition of the “Chinese New Year of Tor Pignattara”, a community-led intercultural event that reinterprets the Chinese New Year as a shared urban heritage and a tool for social cohesion.Recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, the Chinese New Year is here presented not only as a festive celebration, but as a living cultural practice embedded in everyday urban life, capable of fostering dialogue, inclusion, and collective belonging within one of Rome’s most historically multicultural areas.A community-based intercultural paradeThe event takes the form of a participatory parade starting from the historic Carlo Pisacane school complex and moving through the streets of Tor Pignattara. It is conceived and coordinated by Xiaoyan Zhou, Director of the HE PING – PACE Association, with the active involvement of local schools, associations, residents, and cultural act

Working Group Research meeting

Dear colleagues and friends in the Working Group Research of the ICH NGO Forum,we kindly invite you all to meet online for our general Working Group Research meeting on 26 February at 4.00-5.30pm (CET = GMT+1 ) Via Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83185585246Draft agenda:1  WG Research Updates: - ICH Tourism proceedings, - Participatory proceedings: Symposium 2024 publication (participation), and 2025 Symposium contribution2 Launching the 2026 Programme: planning3  Governance. adopting coordination team 20264 Other issues+ We will be sending you the notes of last November meeting, as well as the draft action plan 2026 at the latest by 16 February 2026.You are welcome to contact the coordination group for any further ideas and proposals to still be included in the agenda.We look much forward to seeing you all online, With warmest wishes,Your coordinators for the Working Group Research,Jana Ambrózová, Martín Andrade-Peréz, Jorijn Neyrinck and Valentina Lapiccirella Zingari— with the ICH Tourism coordination

Working Group Conflict and Displacement

Dear colleagues,Please join us for the upcoming meeting of the Conflict and Displacement Working Group, which will take place on Monday, February 23, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. EST / 3:30 p.m. CET.The main objective of this meeting is to plan the Working Group's activities for the year ahead, welcome potential new members, and exchange ideas on how to strengthen participation and outreach. We will also discuss proposed priorities for 2026, key dates and opportunities (including World Refugee Day), and possible collaborations with partners such as UNESCO and UNHCR.For your reference, the agenda is attached.You may join the meeting using the following link: https://meet.google.com/yfj-mwus-qprThank you in advance for your valuable contribution.With kind regards,Sara GreenChairConflict and Displacement Working GroupICH NGO Forum////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////Chères et chers collègues,Nous avons le pla

Hip-Hop as Intangible Cultural Heritage

On the occasion of UNESCO’s International Day of Intangible Cultural Heritage, Rome will host two days of meetings, workshops, and discussions—on October 17 and 18, 2025—dedicated to the nomination of Hip Hop as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.The initiative, promoted by Hip Hop Cinefest and Hip Hop Protection, with the support of the Ecomuseo Casilino ad Duas Lauros and numerous cultural and academic partners, is part of the “Jubilee of the Margins” program. Its aim is to highlight and narrate the evolution of this interdisciplinary culture—one that today finds its place in museums, universities, and educational projects—while serving as a tool for inclusion and social innovation.The program includes several sessions: on October 17, an introduction with representatives from the cultural and institutional fields, followed by a series of dialogues with key figures from the four disciplines of Hip Hop—MCing, Breaking, DJing, and Writing—exploring their history, languages, and contemporary expressions.On Oct

Kaustinen ICH Seminar 2025

The fifth international Kaustinen Intangible Cultural Heritage Seminar Music on the Move – Migration, Resilience and Identity on 12 July will focus on the theme of migration, particularly from the perspective of safeguarding intangible cultural heritage. The seminar program handles the questions related to significance of music and musical heritage when people move from one place to another.The seminar is part of the Kaustinen ICH Academy program and of the 57th Kaustinen Folk Music Festival, whose theme of the year is migration.The floor is given especially to musicians who have personal and practical experience on the theme through personal history or projects related to migration and music. After keynote speech “Where Migration Studies Meet Living Heritage: Community Building among Ukrainian Refugees in Slovakia”  by researcher Ľubica Voľanská, the professor of Sibelius Academy Saijaleena Rantanen takes us to panel discussion with the rap musician Karri ”Paleface” Miettinen who has recently worked in a pro

Presentation of the first Italian municipal advisory body for the safeguarding and promotion of intangible cultural heritage

Promoted by the Ecomuseo Casilino ad Duas Lauros, in close collaboration with 5th Municipality of Rome, the Capitoline Superintendency, the Central Institute for Intangible Heritage, the Department of Social and Economic Sciences at La Sapienza University, and the Simbdea Association, the new body was formally established in March 2025 through a resolution of the Municipal Council and is now officially operational, positioning itself as a replicable model for other areas of the city.The objective is clear: to give voice and space to the “living” heritage made up of knowledge, practices, rituals, artistic expressions, memories, and orally transmitted traditions—often invisible when compared to major monuments, yet central to the identity of local communities. According to the definition set out in the 2003 UNESCO Convention (ratified by Italy in 2022), this heritage represents the lifeblood of contemporary culture and intergenerational transmission.Through this new tool, it will be possible to monitor communit

Naples Conference on Cultural Heritage in the 21st century

‘LOOK AT HERITAGE AS THE WITNESS OF OUR HUMANITY’, Nahla Emam, Egypt- a reflection on the Naples conference on Cultural heritage in the 21st century-From 4 to 6 June 2025, Castel Capuano in Naples hosted UNESCO’s Second Conference on Cultural Heritage in the 21st Century, co-organized by the Government of Italy and UNESCO. This pivotal gathering built upon the “Spirit of Naples” agenda launched in 2023—a visionary call encouraging culturally integrated, people‑centred heritage policies.The three-day event convened delegates from UNESCO Member States and heritage experts alongside Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Antonio Tajani, the Minister of Culture Alessandro Giuli, the UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Culture Ernesto Ottone Ramirez and UNESCO Director‑General Audrey Azoulay, who opened the Ministerial session on 4 June. With six thematic panels, participants explored topics such as heritage representativity, the economic role of cultural assets within a rights‑based frame

ONLINE SEMINAR SERIES OF THE WORKING GROUP ON ICH, CLIMATE CHANGE AND THE ENVIRONMENT

Please join the online seminar of the Working Group on ICH, Climate Change and the Environment on Tuesday May 20th. ONLINE SEMINAR SERIES OF THE WORKING GROUP ON ICH, CLIMATE CHANGE AND THE ENVIRONMENTTuesday 20 May 15h00 – 16h00 UNESCO Paris time (UTC +1) Join Zoom Meetinghttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/89064105303?pwd=qVJtaVJdt0fpXjuTiNPcIwTodVuw2F.1ID of Meeting: 890 6410 5303    Secret Code : 874477 The importance of documenting ICH in the face of natural disastersExperiences from Bonaire.Liliane de Geus, M.A., M.Sc.Representative of NGO Fuhikubo and UNESCO Global FacilitatorAbstract: It is important to document our heritage through oral history. The knowledge passed down from generation to generation involves not only celebrations, but knowledge of the situations people experienced and how they dealt with them. These serve as predictions as well as support and grip. This case study from Bonaire will explain the methods and the processes of preparing documentation on natural disasters on the island.Bio: Raised

ICH Tourism Dialogues #4 - Dialogue on action research experiences in tourism and living heritage

21 May 2025 2.30 pm to 4 p.m. CEST via zoom https://us06web.zoom.us/j/88167198923Dialogue on action research experiences in tourism and living heritage with Ruzanna Tsaturyan (My Armenia Program, Armenia) and Ketevan Gurchiani (Georgia), moderated by Michele McKenzie (international Tourism expert, Canada), Chaired by Halle M. Butvin (Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage, ICH NGO Forum)Drawing from their experiences with the Smithsonian’s My Armenia and Mukhrani Village projects, anthropologists Ketevan Gurchiani and Ruzanna Tsaturyan will explore the critical role of research in cultural tourism development. They will reflect on the importance of community engagement, the need for sensitivity toward cultural practices, and the often-overlooked value of research in shaping respectful and sustainable tourism initiatives. The conversation will be moderated by former President and CEO of Destination Canada Michele McKenzie, bringing insights from her extensive international

Webinar: Paving the Way for the Culture 2030 Goal – The Contributions of the 2003 Convention

The ICH NGO Forum has been involved in the Culture 2030 Goal Campaign since 2023. As the campaign advances its aim of securing a stand-alone goal for culture in the post-Agenda 2030 framework, it is essential that the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage is fully recognized and meaningfully integrated into the process. A broad and inclusive understanding of culture — particularly the concept of intangible cultural heritage and its community-based approaches — is vital. These are areas in which many NGOs accredited under the 2003 Convention bring extensive experience and valuable perspectives.In this webinar, participants will gain insights into the current state and direction of the Culture 2030 Goal Campaign, the upcoming Mondiacult 2025 conference in Barcelona, and the potential roles and opportunities for NGOs accredited under the 2003 Convention to contribute to these global cultural policy developments.The seminar is open for all, but targeted especially for accredited

AUEED live interview on Monte Carlo International Radio

live interview with the Upper Egypt Association's "Treasures of Egypt" tour team on Monte Carlo International Radio. Nevin Wagdy cultural program manager in association of Upper Egypt for Education and Development explained the effective role of AUEED plays in promoting Egyptian cultural heritage nationally and internationally, instilling its values ​​among young people, and ensuring its transmission across generations.the link: https://mc-d.co/26Rn

Assosiation of Upper Egypt for Education and Development Teams perform Egyptian ICH in UNESCO

The Permanent Delegation of the Arab Republic of Egypt to UNESCO organized a heritage event at the organization's headquarters in Paris entitled "Treasures of Egypt." The event was held in cooperation with the French Partage Association and the Upper Egypt Association for Education and Development. A group of Egyptian children presented a number of artistic performances from Egyptian heritage, including the art of "stick dancing - tahtib," as well as artistic performances and traditional Egyptian songs from Upper Egypt and Nubia. The event was attended by a large number of ambassadors and representatives of member states and a wide audience interested in Egyptian heritage.Ambassador Alaa Youssef, Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt to Paris and its Permanent Delegate to UNESCO, delivered the opening speech in which he noted Egypt's inscription of tahtib on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2016. He reviewed the history of this art, which dates back to the Pharaoni

Call for abstracts ICH and Climate Change /Appel à communications PCI et Changement Climatique

Dear members of the working group on ICH and Climate Change,This is a friendly reminder that the deadline for the submission of abstracts is quickly approaching (24 February !!!!).It would be appreciated if you could submit your abstract before our meeting on Tuesday 18 February so we have a better idea of the number of people submitting. I look forward to seeing you at our next seminar on Tuesday, 15h00 Paris time. PLEASE FIND THE AGENDA BELOWBUSINESS MEETING OF THE WORKING GROUP ON ICH, CLIMATE CHANGE AND THE ENVIRONMENTTuesday, 18 February 2025 from 16:00 to 17h00 (UTC +1)  (UNESCO Paris time) Join Zoom Meetinghttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/89064105303?pwd=qVJtaVJdt0fpXjuTiNPcIwTodVuw2F.1ID of Meeting: 890 6410 5303    Secret Code : 874477  AGENDA 1.   Word of welcome and presentation of new members2.   Approval of the Agenda3.   Approval of the minutes of the last meeting4.   Information5.  Evalutation of the abstract submissions and calendar 6.   Website7.  Other business8.   Adjournment9.  Date of the next m

Ła Comedia Veneta - The Venetian Comedy

The Venetian Comedy as a cultural means of expression, entertainment, learning and socialization done in the Venetian language as a vehicle and an essential element of the plays.Dating back to the XV century, with high-ranking periods, it is currently a vast phenomenon in Venetian-speaking communities in the Veneto region and where venetophone stable, ample and long-standing communities are present abroad for historical reasons (mainly: Slovenia, Croatia, Brasil).It is studied by Academias (as a performing art and as to the language and culture) and currently very active thanks to hundreds of acting companies, both professional and amateur, with dozens of playwirghts.

The Eel Coast Cultural Heritage

The Eel Coast Cultural Heritage refers to the more than 3000 years old eel fishing tradition in the Southeastern Sweden. At least since the Scandinavian Bronze Age, eel has been fished for its meat and richness of healthy proteins, Omega 3 and D-vitamines. The traditions along the so called Eel Coast between Åhus and Kivik on the East coast of the landscape Scania, Sweden, are collected by the Eel Coast Cultural Heritage NGO and consist of knowlegde of tools, nets, boats, boat houses, craftmanship, mending of nets and tools, the currents and sea, songs, cooking, oral storytelling.

UNESCO Chair on ICH in Public and Global Governance

The new UNESCO Chair on ICH in Public and Global Governance, that will take place on the 14th of March, between 10.30-16.30 Paris time at the Univeristy of Poland.Join us on March 14, 2024, at 10.00 am CET for the official opening of the UNESCO Chair on Intangible Cultural Heritage in Public and Global Governance at the University of Warsaw!  Live online transmission available: https://uw-edu-pl.zoom.us/j/93960338860Led by Prof. Hanna Schreiber, this Chair aims to explore effective, ethical, and sustainable governance of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH). From oral traditions to traditional craftsmanship, ICH shapes our cultural identity and fosters social cohesion. Join us as we delve into its importance and challenges.Learn more about the event at ichgovernance.com. Let's celebrate and preserve our cultural diversity together! UNESCOChair #HeritageWeek #CulturalDiversity

Chief of the Living Heritage Entity (Culture)

UNESCO seeking to fill a vacancy position of Chief of the Living Heritage Entity (Culture)    1.    OVERVIEWPost Number: CLT 338Grade: P-5Parent Sector: Culture Sector (CLT)Duty Station: ParisJob Family: CultureType of contract: Fixed TermDuration of contract: 2 yearsRecruitment open to: Internal and external candidatesApplication Deadline (Midnight Paris Time): 29-SEP-2023 (EXTENDED)UNESCO Core Values: Commitment to the Organization, Integrity, Respect for Diversity, Professionalism • OVERVIEW OF THE FUNCTIONS OF THE POSTThe Living Heritage Entity (CLT/LHE) is responsible for the implementation of the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible CulturalHeritage. It supports efforts to safeguard intangible cultural heritage, ensures respect for the intangible cultural heritage of the communities,groups and individuals concerned, and raises awareness of the importance of the intangible cultural heritage. The Entity supports the governancemechanisms of the Convention, develops periodic reporting and

Le Festival Les Cultures du Monde à Gannat (03), un espace de promotion du patrimoine vivant.

Chaque été à Gannat, le Festival Les Cultures du Monde, un espace de promotion du patrimoine vivant.Depuis sa création en 1974, le Festival Les Cultures du Monde de Gannat valorise chaque été le patrimoine culturelimmatériel (PCI) en invitant différents groupes praticiens, gardiens ou détenteurs de ce patrimoine vivant.Lors de la 49ème édition du festival cette année, vous découvrirez : l’art mongol du chant Khoomei, la Calligraphie arabe, le Chamamé argentin, l'uilleann piping irlandais, la pratique de la Cabrette et le Maloya. https://www.lesculturesdumonde.org/vivez-le-festival.html

Les rencontres de Gannat 2023... un espace de célébration autour du patrimoine vivant.

En 2023, l’Association Nationale Cultures du Monde, ONG partenaire officielle de l’Unesco, offrira dans le cadre du 49 Festival Les Cultures du Monde de Gannat une place centrale à la célébration du 20e anniversaire de la Convention Unesco pour la sauvegarde du Patrimoine Culturel Immatériel (2003). Il s'agira d'un moment de dialogue pour les acteurs et les structures invitées, locales, nationales et internationales, associations et ONG, qui partagent le même objectif, la mise en œuvre de la convention.Un programme de débats, de conférences et de tables rondes auxquels participeront les différentes structures et acteurs culturels invitées parmi lesquelles :• L'Observatoire régional du Carnaval Guyanais• L’ONG TOWARA de Bénin• La Maison des cultures du monde - Centre français du patrimoine culturel immatériel (MCM-CFPCI)• L’Association Île du Monde• L’Agence des Musiques des Territoires d'Auvergne (AMTA)• Le Conseil international des organisations de festivals de folklore et d'arts traditionnels (CIOFF Interna

Discover the Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH)/Patrimoine Culturel Immatériel (PCI): a celebration of our living heritage!

To shed light on these cultural treasures, we are thrilled to announce the upcoming release of a captivating video series. Titled "ICH, what is it ?",“PCI, qu’es aquò ?”  This series invites you to dive into these vibrant traditions, explore heartfelt testimonials from community representatives and experts, and immerse yourself in striking illustrative imagery. Each video showcases elements of the Intangible Cultural Heritage listed on UNESCO's Representative List, as well as elements found in the ICH inventory in France. Our aim is to raise awareness among the general public about the value and significance of this living heritage, while igniting your curiosity and interest in these unique practices.The popularization videos produced as part of the "ICH, what is it ?",“PCI, qu’es aquò ?” program, videos are freely available online through social media platforms. These videos serve as awareness-raising tools to introduce cultural diversity in a simple manner and promote respect and understanding among communi

Kaustinen ICH Seminar 2023 Building peace with intangible cultural heritage – preparedness, response and recovery

Finnish Folk Music Institute in collaboration with Kaustinen Folk Music Festival organizes a seminar on building peace with intangible cultural heritage on Saturday 15th of July 2023 at 11.00–14.45 at Folk Art Centre, Kaustinen. In the seminar the role of ICH in times of emergency and armed conflict is reflected on from various viewpoints. How can heritage communities prepare for emergencies, how can living heritage be safeguarded in the midst of war and what role has safeguarding ICH in the recovery and reconciliation work on conflict devastated societies? How are regional and national identities jeopardized and used and misused in wars and social unrest?In the seminar examples of peace work in the field of ICH are presented in means of music and talks from Colombia, Ukraine, Hungary, Lithuania, Poland and Finland. The 2003 Convention’s work on Operational principles and modalities for safeguarding intangible cultural heritage in emergencies offers the common thread to the discussions. The mission of the sem

Launch of a Fund to Assist Intangible Cultural Heritage NGOs and Communities in Situations of Crises

Launch of a Fund to Assist Intangible Cultural Heritage NGOs and Communities in Situations of Crises Please click on this link to donate: <a href="https://gofund.me/431b7e64">https://gofund.me/431b7e64</a> The ICH NGO Forum is the membership organization of NGOs that are accredited to UNESCO’s 2003 Convention for Safeguarding Intangible Cultural Heritage. It operates, among other things, as a networking organization among NGOs most of whom operate on the ground working with local communities that are the bearers of this heritage and for whom it is often essential for their livelihoods and resilience. The Forum is launching this fundraising campaign to assist accredited ICH NGOs and communities in emergency situations. A growing number of NGOs and communities are being impacted by climate change (floods, cyclones, mud slides, heat waves, forest fires, drought) and armed conflict (destruction of physical ICH spaces, mortality, forced migration, loss of ICH practices), the two being

ICH NGO FORUM - Newsletter

The ICH NGO Forum has the pleasure to announce that the Newsletter is now back with the publication of the first edition of 2022. The Forum remains committed to strengthening the active and meaningful participation of NGOs in the implementation of the 2003 Convention on Intangible Cultural Heritage. Likewise, the Forum would like to inform its membership organizations that the Newsletter is now open to welcome news on shared mutual experiences, key updates that speak to the sustainable founding mission of our Forum. (Sekou Berte, Communication Officier, Steering Committee of the ICH NGO Forum)

Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage 9th General Assembly of States Parties ICH NGO Forum - Seminar 2022 Good Safeguarding Practices for Human Security

Over the past year, the ICH NGO Forum has mapped the expertise and safeguarding practices of 85 accredited NGOs across all regions of the world. Speakers at this side event will discuss how they employ ICH to mediate conflicts, build community resilience in crises, mitigate impacts of climate change, support economic wellbeing, improve the lives of women and girls, safety and integration of displaced persons, ensure food security through traditional agricultural practices and help to create a healthy and sustainable environmentProgramme Chair Laurier Turgeon, Folklore Studies Association of Canada, Chair of the ICH NGO Forum Steering Committee Women’s Activities in Maintaining Sustainable Agricultural Practices: The Geochang Cooperatives Hwang Eui Dong, Center for Intangible Culture Studies (CICS), South Korea Traditional Wisdom in Everyday Life : Supporting Social Transformation Cholponai Usbalieva-Gryshchuk, Aigine Cultural Research Center, Kyrgyzstan Intangible Cultural Heritage in Armed Conflict and Post-

« Good Safeguarding Practices for Human Security », to be held on July 5th from 1 :00 to 3 :00 PM on site at the UNESCO headquarters, room 6

Dear Accredited NGOs and Delegates / Chères ONG accréditées et Délégués, You are cordially invited to the seminar on « Good Safeguarding Practices for Human Security », to be held on July 5th from 1 :00 to 3 :00 PM on site at the UNESCO headquarters, room 6, (cold buffet served on site) organized by the ICH NGO Forum during the 9th session of the General Assembly of the State Parties to the Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, UNESCO Headquarters, 7 Place de Fontenoy, 75007 Paris, 5 to 7 July 2022. - Because room 6 cannot accommodate more that 57 people, advanced registration is requested by sending an email to Laurier.Turgeon@hst.ulaval.ca and to rbtbaron@gmail.com as soon as possible and no latter than Sunday 18h00 Paris time. Places will be attributed on a first come first serve bases.  Vous êtes cordialement invités à participer au séminaire sur « Les bonnes pratiques de sauvegarde pour la sécurité humaine », le 5 juillet de 13h00 à 15h00 qui se tiendra dans la salle 6 (buffet

ONLINE EVENT: Apply to the Fund of the 2003 Convention for the safeguarding of the ICH / ÉVÉNEMENT EN LIGNE : Faire une demande au Fonds de la Convention de 2003 pour la sauvegarde du PCI

The Living Heritage Entity presents the online event ‘Apply to the Fund of the 2003 Convention for the safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage’ which will take place in March 2022.  Three information sessions are organized to present the International Assistance mechanism of the 2003 Convention, the modalities and the process of application. In addition, the Toolkit for requesting International Assistance from the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage will be presented. This guideline introduces key concepts of the Convention, the criteria for receiving funding and how to plan and monitor projects.To participate, please register for one of the following sessions:·       22 March 2022 from 9:00 to 11:00 (Paris time): Presentation of international assistance for the Asia and Pacific region. Interpretation will be available in French and English. Link to register: https://unesco-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJUpde6oqDgjE92Xb9pumsRLX-wb9reH4DHK·       24 March 2022 from

Publication of the Evaluation of UNESCO’s Action in the framework of the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage

This second evaluation focussing on the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (hereafter the 2003 Convention) marks the first follow-up exercise to the cycle of Internal Oversight Service evaluations of UNESCO’s six culture conventions. The main purpose of this 2021 evaluation was to generate findings, lessons learned, and recommendations regarding the relevance and effectiveness of UNESCO’s action in the framework of the 2003 Convention.As the second youngest UNESCO Culture Convention, the 2003 Convention has been one of the most successful, not only because it has reached nearly universal ratification only fifteen years after entering into force, but especially because it has succeeded in raising awareness of the distinct nature and importance of intangible cultural heritage. Stakeholders attribute this achievement largely to the Convention’s Representative List as well as to UNESCO’s vast capacity building programme.At the same time, the 2003 Co

The Composition of the new Steering Committee for 2021-2022

Executive positions of the Steering Committee for 2021-2022(from top left to bottow right in the photo):Mr. Martín Andrade- Pérez, Mr. Laurier Turgeon, Mr. Sekou Berte, Mr. Mohammed Mohamed Lemine Beidieu,  Ms. Janet Blake,  Mr. Robert Baron, and Ms. Tamara Nikolic Deric (on the separate photo). Laurier Turgeon, - President Janet Blake – Vice President Robert Baron – Secretary Martín Andrade- Pérez - Treasurer.  Steering Committee 2020 - 2021 Western Europe and North America: Mr. Laurier Turgeon - Folklore Studies Association of Canada (Canada) - President Eastern Europe: Ms. Tamara Nikolic Deric – Association House of Batana (Croatia) Latin America and the Caribbean: Mr. Martín Andrade- Pérez- Erigaie Foundation (Colombia) - Treasurer Asia and the Pacific: Ms. Janet Blake – Persian Garden Institute for Living Heritage - (Islamic Republic of Iran) – Vice President Africa:  Mr. Sekou Berte - Mali Cultural Heritage Agency (Mali) -- Responsable for CommunicationsArab States:  Mr. Mohammed Mohamed Lemine Beidieu

The results of the third call for Arab States, Eastern Europe and Latin America

The voting for ICH NGO Forum Steering Committee Elections will be held online on December 14 2021 and December 15 until noon Paris time (GMT+1:00).A voting link will be sent to one designated email for each accredited NGO.Please click here to fill up the designated email id for your NGO  using an online form. Please complete this before December 13, 2021 08:00 PM Paris time (GMT+ 1:00) Only NGOs who submit email id through this form will get a voting link.The presentation of the candidates for the elections will be held Monday 13 December online at 17h30-19h30 Paris time (GMT+1:00)Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89211424568?pwd=bGI1NWlkSEIzcnBxWVBPeUw5Wm40dz09Meeting ID: 892 1142 4568Passcode: 584051The candidates elected will be announced on Wednesday 15 December during the General Assembly of the ICH NGO Forum, at 17h30-19h30 Paris time (GMT+1:00)Link: https://unesco-org.zoom.us/j/98667893587Passcode: 536809List of candidates and application files:Africa (Group V a):- M. Sekou Berte, Mali Cultural Heritage

2003 Convention: 16.COM Information on registration and election / 16.COM Informations sur les enregistrements et elections

Following my previous message on 3 December last regarding the fully online meeting modality of the upcoming sixteenth session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (13–18 December 2021), I would like to provide further information on the following three aspects:1.          Registration for the 16.COM Information and exchange session (10 December 2021)2.          Registration for the 16.COM (13 to 18 December 2021)3.          Voting by secret ballotShould you have queries, please contact the Secretariat at ichmeetings@unesco.org.Yours sincerely,Tim CurtisSecretary, Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage1.          Registration for the 16.COM Information and exchange session (10 December 2021 - 2.00 to 3.00 p.m., Paris time)An Information and exchange session will be held through the Zoom platform on Friday, 10 December 2021 from 2.00 to 3.00 p.m (Paris time). The purpose of the meeting will be to introduce, in the presence of t

Survey on Article 21

Please visit the mentioned site below for the Survey on Article 21:--- English version below ----Chers représentants des ONG accréditées auprès de la Convention de 2003,Nous, membres du groupe de travail ad hoc sur l'article 21 de la section IV des statuts du Forum des ONG du PCI, aimerions vous présenter ci-dessous un bref questionnaire complété par des informations générales pour votre lecture.Lien vers le questionnaire en français : https://forms.gle/XnhPD6dpmHztqVXh8Merci beaucoup pour votre collaboration !---------------------------------------------Dear Representatives of the accredited NGOs to the 2003 Convention,We, members of the Ad hoc working group on Article 21 of Section IV of the ICH NGO Forum Bylaws, would like to present a short questionnaire supplemented by background information for your perusal below.Link to questionnaire in English: https://forms.gle/Pz6DNgqmZroWvHnN9Thank you very much for your collaboration.

Editorial Board Meeting #HeritageAlive Chaired by Eivind Falk (Norwegian Crafts Institute)

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89211424568?pwd=bGI1NWlkSEIzcnBxWVBPeUw5Wm40dz09  Meeting ID: 892 1142 4568 Passcode: 584051 (All times indicated are Paris time (GMT+1:00)  Tuesday 14 December   13h15-14h15 #HeritageAlive Meeting Chaired by Eivind Falk (Norwegian Crafts Institute)

PROGRAMME FOR THE ICH NGO FORUM (16COM 2021)

All meetings will be held online. Please find attached the final programme of the ICH NGO Forum activities during the week of the 12th to the 18th of December.PROGRAMME FOR THE ICH NGO FORUM (16COM 2021) The ICH NGO FORUM meetings during 16COM will all be held online.Participants may access the meetings online at their convenience throughout the week by clicking on this Zoom link:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89211424568?pwd=bGI1NWlkSEIzcnBxWVBPeUw5Wm40dz09 Meeting ID: 892 1142 4568Passcode: 584051(All times indicated are Paris time (GMT+1:00) Saturday 4 December 13h30-18h00Online workshop to present an overview of the 2003 Convention, the role of NGOs, the ICH NGO Forum and the programme and participation at 16COM.The workshop is especially geared to respond to the needs and questions of the newly accredited NGOs, but we welcome all NGOs interested in keeping up with recent developments and wanting first-hand information to better prepare for 16COM.French language session: 13h30-15h00 (Paris time) (Led by Laurie

PROGRAMME FOR THE ICH NGO FORUM (16COM 2021)

Dear ICH NGO Forum members, We are writing to inform you that all of the ICH NGO Forum meetings will be held online. The Secretariat of the ICH Convention advised us yesterday of this decision. We are currently revising the programme of activities to adapt it to this new situation. Please be advised that we will maintain all of the planned activities (symposium on Sunday from 1:00 to 4:00 PM Paris time, Monday evening election speeches, AGA on Wednesday, and working group meetings during the week). The only difference is that the time slots may change slightly in order to adapt to the changes in the ICG meeting schedule, which should be sent to us tomorrow. We aim to send you the revised final programme of the ICH NGO Forum meetings as soon as possible, hopefully tomorrow, Friday 3 December. We thank you for your patience and understanding in these challenging times. The Steering CommitteeICH NGO Forum

Online International Conference on the Craft of the Miller

In 2017: the craft of the miller was the Kingdom of the Netherlands’ first inscription on the Representative List of the UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage. However: this craft is not unique to the Netherlands. By organising an international online conference: we aim to bring together wind- and watermill parties from all over the world to share knowledge and skills and develop an international network of millers and mill societies. Initially we intended to convene a conference in the Netherlands: but due to COVID-19 it could not take place. We decided not to wait until we can meet in person. Therefore we are organising an online meeting. You find the programme here: https://network.molens.nl/If you are unable to attend this conference but you would like to receive news about future activities: please send an e-mail to: craftofthemiller@molens.nl

Online Stage

The “ONLINE STAGE” platform on the EAFF's website provides an easy way to promote folklore music and dance video performances: which in just a few steps will be visible on the website of the European Association of Folklore Festivals - EAFF.The aim of the initiative is to present records of high artistic value to keep alive the traditions of the nations.The unique virtual stage will provide you a stage to present yourself: despite the current global situation: delighting fans of folklore art. You can send your video to the "online stage" with just one click.The "ONLINE STAGE" section is part of the eponymous new section of the EAFF's website: which also provides access to the overview-documentary festival films: to the editions of the TV show "World Folklore Art" and to the monthly TV shows of the TV Championship by EurofolkTV .The new section also takes you to the opportunity to become viewers and listeners of EAFF's main media partners - Eurofolk's online television and online radio. Enjoy the emotions with

X World Championship of Folklore "World folk 2020" ONLINE

The team of the European Association of Folklore Festivals - EAFF: (ICH) partner of UNESCO welcomes all the performers in the field of the folklore arts!We are pleased to announce that the jubilee X edition of the World Championship of Folklore "World folk" 2020 will be held in two formats - traditionally: in a real environment and virtually: on the Internet. The online version of the Championship is a result of the pandemic situation around the world and in response to the imposed measures to limit the spread of COVID-19. In this regard: EAFF offers a new platform for performance and creative contacts for all folk groups: which do not have the opportunity to travel and attend the event live! Join the online edition of the X World Championship of Folklore "World Folk" 2020 and become part of the upcoming virtual contest!With this new form of communication: let us overcome isolation and stay together in this challenge: because folklore has always been: is and will be shared knowledge! Of course: online partici

Kaustinen Folk Music Festival finds the ways to do it online

Thousands of cultural and heritage events throughout the world have been cancelled due to covid-19 pandemic. Kaustinen Folk Music Festival: the major Finnish folk music and dance event and one of the majors in Northern Europe: also had to tell this sad message to its dedicated friends. In order to support practising and sharing living heritage under current conditions and to keep up the festival community: consisting of 4000–5000 professional and amateur performers and 40000–50000 visitors annually: a virtual online festival was quickly created. The core of the VirtualKaustinen 2020 online event: 13.–19.7.2020: is the general invitation to all willing groups and individuals to record video performances: upload them to Youtube and share the link to the festival organization. Several hundred videos are expected: and the festival publishes daily a selection of dozens of links. The programme also consists of daily streamed concerts and workshops: interviews and a webcast radio by The Finnish Folk Music Institute

Volunteers for ad hoc sub-committee for the ICH NGO Forum report at 15.COM

Volunteers for ad hoc sub-committee for the ICH NGO Forum report at 15. COM(See below for the french version)Dear colleagues:we hope that this email finds you well and safe from the spread of Covid-19.As you know: at 14. COM the Intergovernmental Committee decided to include our report as a separate agenda item at its next session. It will be first such report in the history of the Forum: and it requires our due attention.Several members of the Steering Committee had an online meeting with UNESCO Secretariat: where we discussed formal requirement for the report. It is expected to be no longer than 5 pages; it may use as a model the reports of ad hoc working groups; the greatest attention should be given to the draft decision as the binding part of the agenda item: while overall contents of the report is up to the Forum to decide. The deadline for completing the English version of the report is the end of September. The Secretariat will translate it into French: and both versions needs to be available at the U

Workshop on ICH management in Pernik, Bulgaria

The Regional Centre Sofia organizes two-days workshops on 'ICH management' in different cities in Bulgaria in the frames of the project named “Safeguarding of the intangible cultural heritage through enhancing civil society’s participation on the process of formulating: implementing and monitoring of policies and legislation”.After the first workshop in Ruse and the following in Koprivshtitsa: Burgas and Vratsa: the last planned workshop will be held in the city of Pernik on March 5-6: 2020.More information: available in Bulgarian* Link: http://www.unesco-centerbg.org

Nordic-Baltic ICH Network established, Kaustinen ICH seminar 2019 video available online

The Nordic and Baltic network on Intangible Cultural Heritage was established 13.7.2019 at the Kaustinen Intangible Cultural Heritage Seminar 2019. The organization of the network will be discussed in a satellite meeting associated with the first Nordic ICH conference Living heritage in the Nordic countries. International seminar on the UNESCO 2003 Convention: 31.10–1.11.2019 in Hanaholmen Cultural Centre: Espoo: Finland.See more information on the network and watch the Kaustinen seminar video(http://www.kansanmusiikki-instituutti.fi/toiminta/nordic-baltic-ich-network/).

Beer Culture in Belgium

Belgium and beer is synonymous as the culture holds high demand for it. Until the 1960s children eating lunch at school had the choice of beer (called table beer low in alcohol) as their drink. Consumption and demand for beer is a tradition and the range of different kinds of beer in Belgium is constantly growing. Although statistically Belgium has fewer breweries than that of some states in the US, Belgium has more diversity when it comes to beer styles and their brewing processes. There are some 1500 types of beer, all using different fermentation methods. Many local Belgian beers are brewed in micro-breweries. These beers having their own brands reach many locals who consume the beer with any kind of social gatherings or events. Master brewers will often teach courses in universities and other venues in order to help transmit their skills to aspiring brewers and amateurs alike. Beer culture in Belgium was inscribed in 2016 to the representative list of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Referenc

The oldest sport in Ireland: Hurling

The oldest sports in Ireland is Hurling. It predates Christianity as there are records of it being played in 1200 BCE. This ancient game is some what unknown to the rest of the world. Hurling is a team sport that involves 15 players on each side, chase and try to score on the opponents’ goal with a ball known as Sliotar (leather covered cork centered ball). Much like sports that have two halves consisting of 25-35minute time frame, the team with the most goals win the match. Hurling resembles field hockey, lacrosse and soccer how it is played out. The sport promotes good health, wellbeing, and team spirit. Today Hurling is preserved and transmitted through coaching and games in schools and clubs. Hurling was inscribed in 2018 to the list of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. References: ICH UNESCO, WIKIPEDIA

DANCE AWARD SEASON 2020: Where you are the protagonist!

The Dance Grand Prix present the International Competitions and invite your dance school/group to compete and performing at the most prestigious "Art Cities Theatres" in Europe."Barcelona Dance Award" in Spain from 9 to 13 April 2020 during Easter Spring Time.and"Dance Grand Prix Venice-Florence" in Italy from 22 to 26 June 2020 during Summer Time.To find out how to qualify: mail the office: so Directors should act right away for next Year!Unfortunately: in this year: space has been limited and many groups have failed to register: and we hope do not have this kind of problems: for your dance group: next 2020 editions!If you need: just in a few days you will receive (free on charges for you!) some advertising materials from us:the brochures and posters of the Dance Grand Prix 2020 Season: reply to this e.mail for request of info.our info email: eurodancebarcelona@gmail.comFull Name: ___________________________________________School/Company Name: ________________________________Email Address: __________________

The Carnival of Basel: Three best days in the year of Switzerland

The Carnival of Basel is the biggest carnival in Switzerland and has been listed as one of the top fifty local festivities of Europe. Taking place on Monday after Ash Wednesday at precisely 4:00 am, Carnival of Basel otherwise known as Basler Fasnacht turns the city upside down for 72 hours. The locals call it “Three best days” in the year. All the lights in the city center are turned off and over 200 painted lanterns fill the streets along with hundreds of drummers and piccolo players marching together showing cohesiveness. This is known as Morgestraich that fill the streets. Participants in the parading is required to remain in incognito, parades are often disguised behind political, celebrity, satirical figures. This brings social cohesion through social criticism, making this unique carnival inclusive and overall great for the social dynamic of the city. The Carnival of Basel in Switzerland has been inscribed to the list of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2017. You can watch "The Carnival

Kolo: Serbian circle dance

Kolo is a Serbian circle dance that involves the dancers holding each other’s hands or each other’s waist, forming a chain of dancers that revolve in circle. Kolo has different but similar forms throughout Southeastern Europe and phonetically ~oro or ~olo maintains in calling this art of circular dance. Kolo is mainly performed at weddings, religious ceremonies, and any other social gatherings. The participants are both male and female, although there are parts to the dance where it requires one gender to take over as the main role. Traditional attire of Kolo involoves the men having to wear caps, loose blouse tucked into their pants that balloon around their thighs and eventually tightening from the knee down to the ankles. The women have to wear king white embroidered dresses with velvet aprons tied at their waist. The sustainability and transmission process of Kolo is both protected and processed on a national and regional level as it is not only a symbol of national identity but also has regional and loca

Madur and Patachitra at Hungary Heritage House

2 traditional handicraft artists from rural West Bengal (Patachitra and Madur weaving) have reached Budapest on 13th Aug. Hungarian Heritage House is hosting a Patachitra exhibition starting 15 August onwards. On 17th onwards the Handicraft artists will be at Festival of Folk Arts at Buda Castle. Request all friends to please visit both the exhibition to be at held at Hungary Heritage House House ground floor Exhibition Hall and then the festival of Folk Art at Buda Castle. Aug 15 is India's Independence Day (73rd year of Independence) and we are happy that Indian Ambassador in Budapest will inaugurate the exhibition at 5 pm on 15 Aug.

Flamenco of Spain: Andalusia Region State of Mind in motion

Andalusia of Spain is a hotbed for multicultural assets as it borders the Iberian Peninsula. Cross cultural interchanges between the native Andalusians, Romani, Castilians, Moors, and Sephardi Jews have made this region rich in unique art. Flamenco is one of them. This complex set of motions able to express joy, fear, triumph, and sadness is quite an unique set of motions. The performers differ in style and techniques depending on the sex; as males use more of their steps aggressively and profoundly in motion, as females use much more sensual movements often suggesting their vulnerability with more grace in their movements. Toque or the art of guitar playing is the choice of music accompanying the Flamenco, as well as the castanets along with hand clapping and foot stamping. Flamenco has become a staple in community fairs, religious festivals, as well as in private groups in a more casual setting. Flamenco is inscribed to the 2010 list of representing Intangible Cultural Heritage. The transmission process is

Kurenti: Door to Door custom of Slovenia

From Candlemas to Ash Wednesday Kurenti practices of going from house to house to perform dances and form circles around the owners happen. The practice helps strengthen interpersonal bonds and is key to the regional identity of the communities concerned as it is believed that the noisy bell-ringing and brandishing of their wooden sticks chase everything evil away and bring happiness to those they visit. The Kurenti costume consists of sheep skins, girded with chains that hold huge cow bells, leg warmers and a headgear with horns or feathers, a pointed nose and a bright red tongue. It is the most distinctive among some 150 traditional costumes preserved in Slovenia. Kurenti was inscribed to UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2017. Kurenti has been in transmission through regional communities, schools, workshops, and Federation of Kurenti Associations which oversees all of the processes. Kurenti knowledge and skills are most commonly transmitted within the family, but youngsters also learn from elde

Kaustinen Intangible Cultural Heritage Seminar 2019 and Folk Music Festival (7/8/19-7/14/19)

Kaustinen Intangible Cultural Heritage Seminar 2019The impact of Unesco nominations on community-based safeguarding of intangible cultural heritage – experiences and practices.Date: July 13th: 2019 Location: Folk Art Centre: Museosali: Jyväskyläntie 3: Kaustinen: FinlandThe seminar’s aim is to elaborate the role and impact of Unesco’s lists of intangible cultural heritage in safeguarding cultural heritage. What effect have nominations brought to practitioners in different Baltic and Nordic countries? What ways are there to promote good safeguarding practices? What role might NGOs take in the process? What kinds of threats or downsides are there in following the safeguarding framework of the convention?In the seminar we’ll hear presentations reflecting different ICH elements from Norway: Sweden: Estonia: Latvia and Finland. Seminar is free of charge and held in English.Registration until 10th of July: anne.virkkala-harju@kaustinen.fi (Limited number of seats!)Kaustinen Folk Music Festival 2019The seminar is a

The Lithuanian folk dance revival by the Lithuanian Ethnic Culture Society

Ethnic dance of Lithuanian folk dances were widely popular among the general population before World War II. Due do the suppression of traditional heritage during the Soviet occupation of Lithuania, the folk dancing took a down turn in popularity. Many decades later the folk dance tradition is back thanks in large part due to the Traditional Dance club established in Vilnius in 2002 by the Lithuanian Ethnic Culture Society, The clubs are run mainly to spread and promote the almost lost social function of folk dancing. The suppression during the Soviet occupation has not deterred the main spirit of the performance, as it has now spread all over Lithuania and other European countries as well. What started out in small clubs in cafes, small restaurants, and halls have moved into much larger venues and have become a festival surrounding the folk dance itself. The Clubs are open to everyone and participants are able to learn dances from various Lithuanian ethnic regions and musicians perform live music with accord

"Current problems in the study of intangible cultural heritage and the implementation of the Convention 2003. Contributions of BAS scientists"

In 2019: the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences (BAS) has a jubilee - 150 years since its creation. In this occasion: in the period 17-19 October 2019: BAS: together with the Regional Center for Preservation of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Southeastern Europe under the aegis of UNESCO: organized an international scientific forum on the topic: "Current problems in the study of intangible cultural heritage and the implementation of the Convention 2003. Contributions of BAS scientists". Deadline for submission of applications for participation (author: institution: position: subject: summary with up to 800 signs) is June 15th: 2019. Application must be sent to ban_ich_rc@abv.bg The forum will be held in SOFIA: BAS: CENTRAL GOVERNANCE: GREAT HALL There will be also accompanying events as concerts: exhibition: etc. Transport and accommodation expenses are participants' obligation. Application form is in www.eaff.eu

Living Cultural Heritage - Safeguarding, Practices, Information Technologies LCH-2019

Living Cultural Heritage -Safeguarding: Practices: Information Technologies LCH-201926 - 29 August 2019: Nessebar: Bulgaria www.eaff.eu Conference will be held in the frames of the IX World Championship of Folklore "World Folk 2019" organized by the European Association of Folklore Festivals - EAFF. The forum is aimed to the theme for preservation: presentation and digitization of the cultural heritage and has interdisciplinary nature. The leading purpose is the broad-spectrum interpretation of the concept of living cultural heritage. On the one hand - as a phenomenon of the living cultural practices and in general - as a scientifically systematized digital content of various tangible and intangible values from museums: archives: community centers etc. Sharing the Bulgarian and foreign experience in specialized and interdisciplinary scientific research: the exchange of modern information technology solutions as well: will be useful in achieving meaningful and technologically renewed living knowledg

Kaustinen Intangible Cultural Heritage Seminar 2019

Kaustinen Intangible Cultural Heritage Seminar 2019The impact of Unesco nominations on community-based safeguarding of intangible cultural heritage – experiences and practices.SAT 13.7. / Folk Art Centre: Museosali: Jyväskyläntie 3: Kaustinen: FinlandThe seminar’s aim is to elaborate the role and impact of Unesco’s lists of intangible cultural heritage in safeguarding cultural heritage. What effect have nominations brought to practitioners in different Baltic and Nordic countries? What ways are there to promote good safeguarding practices? What role might NGOs take in the process? What kinds of threats or downsides are there in following the safeguarding framework of the convention?In the seminar we’ll hear presentations reflecting different ICH elements from Norway: Sweden: Estonia: Latvia and Finland. Seminar is free of charge and held in English.Registration until 15th of June: anne.virkkala-harju@kaustinen.fiPROGRAM:11.30 Welcome to the seminar – Kaustinen fiddle playingMatti Hakamäki / Finnish Folk Music

Expert meeting on intangible cultural heritage in emergencies

DATE: 05/21/2019- 05/22/2019Location: UNESCO Headquarters: Paris (France)At the request of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage: UNESCO is organizing an expert meeting in UNESCO Headquarters: Paris: on 21 - 22 May 2019: with the generous support of the People’s Republic of China. The aim of the meeting is to discuss methodological guidance for the safeguarding of intangible cultural heritage in emergencies.In this context: experts will address notably the two following dimensions: how is intangible cultural heritage itself disrupted and threatened under such circumstances and what can be done for its safeguarding; and: on the other hand: how can intangible cultural heritage be promoted: safeguarded or supported: as a critical means for rebuilding social cohesion: fostering reconciliation and/or facilitating recovery for communities confronted with situations of emergencies. The results of the meeting will be presented to the Director-General of UNESCO and su

Good practice from Finland: On Crafting – Discussion cards

The crafting discussion cards of Taito Group Finland promote interesting discussions about the art of crafting in the local community. Since 2016, Taito Group in Finland held these crafting meetings and made the initiative for the card series by hobbyists and professional crafters. The common bond amongst the group is about craft, and to talk about crafting as it cross section into its local culture. They published the On Crafting discussion cards in early 2018. The meetings along with the help of the crafting discussion cards make it a very useful meeting. The culture of crafting is discussed along with traditional ways and the modern changes that are coming to crafts. Not only do they make process but also help develop for open dialogue being able to improve their beloved traditions.“they enable comprehensive consideration and verbalising of the significance of handicrafts and crafting culture” which is the main purpose of On Crafting discussion cards. The discussion cards will give a new perception to craf

Master’s TEMA Heritage Studies Program (including ICH) and scholarships are available!

Master’s TEMA Heritage Studies Program (including ICH) and scholarships are available in Europe! Applications must be sent before February 24:2019. The TEMA Erasmus Mundus master's program in heritage studies: funded by the European Union: will be offering 20 scholarships of a value of 30 000 euros for the two year period from September 2019 to August 2021. Scholarship: 30 000 euros over two years.Study Program: all students are required to spend the first semester in Budapest (Sept. to December 2019, and the other three at the partner university of their choice (EHESS in Paris: Charles University in Prague: University of Catania in Catania: Italy: or Laval University in Quebec City (Master's Program in Ethnology and Heritage)Languages of study: English and FrenchCo-graduation: Master's degree in the Erasmus Mundus program and Master's degree at the university of study.Deadline for submission of applications: 24 February 17h00Application forms: available on the website: https://mastertema.eu/

Bistritsa Babi, archaic polyphony, dances and rituals from the Shoplouk region

Bistritsa Babi are an elderly/multi-generational female vocal ensemble carrying on the traditional dances and polyphonic singing of the Shopluk region of Bulgaria. Bistritsa Babi has been part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage since 2005. The Bistritsa Babi sing at two or three voices, and in different pitches. “Izvikvat” – lead the song while “Buchat krivo” – keep a continuous sound. This makes the harmonic music of Bulgaria a unique sound. People dance the “Horo” dance holding each other the belts of their traditional costumes when they hear the songs. You can see people performing these songs and dances at the ritual of “Lazaruvane” when young girls go around the village collecting eggs. See the video on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=embqg-yKHNQ Reference Treasure quest https://heriquest.com/?p=37&l=2&c=9&id=288

Good practice from Norway: Dual-language, multi-ethnic storytelling

Good practice from Norway: Dual-language, multi-ethnic storytelling Oral traditions from Norway. Oral myths, fables, fairy-tales, legends are being told in Norwegian and in Sami. Because of the rapid pace of immigration leading to much more cultural diversity the oral tradition is changing. There are multiplicity of new story telling traditions. However these traditions are being looked over and their influence is not part of the larger schooling curriculum. Fortellerhuset, the storytelling house, was invited to the storytelling festival in Iran. It was told in English then translated by an interpreter. Audiences could understand oral traditions in a more playful and dramatic way by the performers with two languages. The storytelling was continued in Norway. Fortellerhuset had developed the performances, techniques and new two-language productions and it is being performed at libraries, schools and kindergardens. The aims of the storytelling begin to help people with non-Norwegian backgrounds to reconnect to

IX World Championship of Folklore "World folk 2019"

Location: Nessebar and the resort complex “Sunny Beach” (Wikipedia) The World Championship of Folklore "World Folk 2019" is organizing byThe World Association of Folklore Festivals - WAFF:The European Association of Folklore Festivals - EAFF:World Folklore Academy: Event Vacation. With the support of:UNESCO: IOV-WORLD: CID-UNESCOMunicipalities of Nessebar: Burgas: Pomorie and Obzor: Sveti VlasBasic InformationA special feature of the World Championship of Folklore "World Folk" is that all performances are recorded with professional audio and television equipment and the best of them are repeatedly broadcasted by 20 cable televisions in Bulgaria: by satellite televisions "Travel TV": "Rodina TV" and "Heros TV" with coverage across Europe: as well as by the Web Television "EuroFolkTV" at tv.eurofolk.com With these activities the main goal of the World Championship of Folklore "World Folk 2018“ is being realized and that is to protection and popularize the traditional folk arts through the enormous possibilitie

Latvian song & dance celebration Participation

Fun!!!

CICS at the ICHNGO platform in the 7th session of the General Assembly

CICS at the ICHNGO platform

Having wonderful time at 7. GA

Networking with other NGOs for safeguarding ICH is i nspiring!

Seventh Session of the General Assembly

Seventh Session of the General AssemblyThe seventh session of the General Assembly of the States Parties to the Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage takes place at UNESCO headquarters: Paris: from Monday 4 to Wednesday 6 June 2018. Over the three days: 177 States Parties will discuss a number of issues that are important for the safeguarding of living heritage around the world. In the margin of this Assembly: a series of side-events is being organized by the Secretariat under the global theme of ‘Tell your #living heritage story’. They will exhibit the richness of living heritage today and provide a platform for discourse and experience-sharing among the different actors involved in safeguarding: including the States: NGOs: youth and community members.

2018 ICCN General Assembly

I am pleased to inform that ICCN(Inter-City Intangible Cultural Cooperation Network)is going to host the 2018 ICCN General Assembly in September 5 to 9 in Algemesi: Spain. I would like all ICCN members: experts and other cultural partners to particpate in the ICCN GA. During the GA: La Mare de Deu de la Salut: one of UNESCO ICH: will be held so that it will be a great opportunity to enjoy the UNESCO Festivity for us. At the GA: we have an international conference on the theme of "we want to know your heritage including an executive meeting and the general assembly meeing. In addtion: all participants will have a chance to attend the UNESCO festivity's parade and cultural activities.