Pictures: Malika Hamza

According to the 2003 UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, the intangible cultural heritage (ICH) – or living heritage – is the mainspring of our cultural diversity and its maintenance a guarantee for continuing creativity. The Convention states that the ICH is manifested, among others, in the following domains:

• Oral traditions and expressions including language;
• Performing arts such as traditional music, dance and theatre;
• Social practices, rituals and festive events;
• Knowledge and practices concerning nature and the universe;
• Traditional craftsmanship.

The definition also indicates that the ICH to be safeguarded by this Convention:

• Is transmitted from generation to generation;
• Is constantly recreated by communities and groups, in response to their environment, their interaction with nature, and their history;
• Provides communities and groups with a sense of identity and continuity;
• Promotes respect for cultural diversity and human creativity;
• Is compatible with international human rights instruments;
• Complies with the requirements of mutual respect among communities, and of sustainable development.

Many elements of the ICH are endangered, due to effects of globalization, uniformization policies, and lack of means, appreciation and understanding which – taken together – may lead to the erosion of functions and values of such elements and to lack of interest among the younger generations.