The Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions underscores the importance of cultural diversity in the global context and seeks to create a framework for the protection and promotion of cultural expressions at both the national and international levels. It highlights the connection between culture, development, and human rights.
The convention defines cultural expressions as those that result from the creativity of individuals, groups, and societies, and that have cultural content. This includes various forms such as language, literature, music, dance, theater, rituals, customs, and visual arts. The convention recognizes the importance of cultural diversity for the full realization of human potential and the well-being of societies. It emphasizes the right of individuals and communities to express, create, and disseminate their cultural expressions. States have the sovereign right to adopt cultural policies to protect and promote the diversity of cultural expressions within their territories.
The convention encourages the active involvement of civil society in the formulation, implementation, and evaluation of cultural policies. It recognizes the role of non-governmental organizations and individuals in contributing to the diversity of cultural expressions.
Law 3520/2006 ratified the Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions, adopted in 2005 by UNESCO.
The convention defines intangible cultural heritage as the practices, representations, expressions, knowledge, skills, and the associated instruments, objects, artifacts, and cultural spaces that communities, groups, and, in some cases, individuals recognize as part of their cultural heritage. States parties are encouraged to establish and maintain inventories of their intangible cultural heritage and take measures to identify, document, promote, and transmit their intangible cultural heritage.
The convention establishes criteria for the inscription of elements of intangible cultural heritage on national and international lists. These lists aim to raise awareness and promote visibility for the safeguarded elements. The convention is based on fundamental principles such as respect for the diversity of intangible cultural heritage, mutual respect between communities and individuals, and sustainable development.
Law 3521/2006 (275/Α/22-12-2006) ratified the Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, adopted in 2003 by the General Conference of UNESCO.
