ICHCAP

The United Kingdom has officially joined UNESCO’s 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, making it the 183rd nation to do so. This membership will take effect on June 7, 2024, and aims to safeguard the UK`s diverse cultural practices, including those influenced by its immigrant communities. This initiative follows a public consultation aimed at creating a register of important local traditions.

UNESCO’s Convention emphasizes the significance of living heritage, which includes oral traditions, performing arts, social practices, rituals, and knowledge concerning nature and the universe. The Convention encourages countries to incorporate these elements into their policy-making and educational systems, ensuring cultural preservation and transmission to future generations.

Over the last seven years, 11 countries have joined the Convention, showcasing a growing global commitment to cultural heritage. The UK’s participation will involve documenting and promoting its rich and varied traditions, thereby reinforcing the value of cultural diversity and heritage. Moreover, the Convention integrates cultural heritage preservation into broader initiatives, such as climate action, highlighting the interconnectedness of cultural and environmental sustainability.

This step is part of the UK`s broader efforts to acknowledge and protect its intangible cultural assets, ensuring they remain vibrant and relevant. By joining the Convention, the UK commits to fostering cultural awareness, respect, and understanding within its diverse population and beyond.