The Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage recognizes the importance of preserving living cultural traditions and practices, giving them the same level of attention as tangible cultural heritage. It emphasizes a community-centered and participatory approach to ensure the continuity and vitality of intangible cultural heritage. Communities are considered key stakeholders and are expected to actively participate in decision-making processes.
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.
