ICHCAP

ICHCAP carried out an on-site mission to Thimphu, Bhutan, from 15 to 20 March 2025, to assess the progress of a digitization support project for ICH-related analogue audiovisual materials and to discuss the development of Bhutan’s country page on the ichLinks platform.

The mission marked a crucial step in safeguarding Bhutan’s ICH through digital technology. During the visit, ICHCAP and the National Library & Archives of Bhutan (NLAB) reviewed the current status of analogue materials, examined metadata for approximately 540 hours of content, and assessed storage conditions for target recordings for digitization.

The NLAB presented its Digital Library Development Plan (2025–2030), with a vision of sharing Bhutanese heritage globally through integration with ichLinks. Discussions also focused on securing accurate metadata, addressing copyright issues, and identifying additional materials suitable for digitization.

In parallel, ICHCAP provided technical guidance on creating Bhutan’s country profile on ichLinks. Both sides shared ideas on structuring the page to enhance accessibility and cultural engagement, ensuring that users can explore Bhutan’s rich intangible heritage with ease.

The local project team’s structure and available resources were reviewed, revealing a need for updated equipment and technical expertise. In response, ICHCAP committed to offering support through expert consultations and equipment recommendations, alongside simplified digitization guidelines tailored to Bhutan’s needs.

Plans were also made to conduct a training workshop later in the year, focusing on metadata development, digital preservation techniques, and practical skills for local staff. NLAB expressed its intention to expand digital content for public outreach, particularly to showcase community-based heritage such as festivals and mask dances.

This collaboration not only strengthens Bhutan’s capacity for heritage preservation but also contributes to the expansion of ichLinks as a regional knowledge-sharing platform. It is expected to serve as a model for digital transformation in safeguarding intangible cultural heritage across the Asia-Pacific.