Safeguarding Intangible Cultural Heritage

This book presents a detailed analysis of the different approaches and measures for implementing the requirements of UNESCO’s 2003 Convention on Safeguarding Intangible Cultural Heritage (the Convention) and a practical interpretation of that treaty, based on the experience of States’ Parties and other primary actors. The book considers the interests of multiple stakeholders and takes account of how the Convention interacts with other international law regimes pertaining to both human rights and sustainable development.


Key Features:








Provides clear and concise information of the definition, scope and significance of intangible cultural heritage


Utilises a wide-range of case studies to illustrate the application of the Convention on the ground.


Considers the position of multiple stakeholders including national heritage organisations and non-state actors


Outlines practical strategies and solutions for protecting and promoting cultural heritage and looks ahead to potential future developments in this field.


Easy to follow structure, mapping out the treaty’s provisions thematically and highlighting their practical application



Providing accessible and focused analysis, this book will be essential reading for lawyers and practitioners involved in the protection of intangible cultural heritage from both governmental and non-governmental institutions. The book will also be a valuable resource to academics and researchers working across various disciplines including law, heritage, and anthropology.