The Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage: the legal framework and universally recognized principles

Abstract

Stresses the value of intangible cultural heritage as it embodies the identities of people. On that point, the author expresses that heritage is to nations what the soul is to human beings. This exceptional and fragile cultural diversity deserves to be protected against the dangers of globalization. The new international, standardized instrument, using the 1972 Convention as a model, was intended to ensure that intangible heritage retains its vitality and flexibility, somewhere between tradition and innovation. In that spirit, the 2003 Convention was created. Its founding basis is deemed realistic and capable of reconciling contradictory demands. Furthermore, the safeguarding of intangible heritage will contribute to 'cultural sustainability', which is an essential element for the sustainable development of humanity and therefore an indication of responsibility towards its preservation for future generations.