Intangible cultural heritage should be guarded on 4 levels. Each one of them has a unique role and cooperation between them is necessary for the best protection of ICH.
On the local level effective safeguarding of ICH relies on the synergy between municipal policy and active community participation. By prioritizing local action, we ensure that heritage is not merely preserved as a relic of the past, but continues to thrive as a living part of a community’s identity.
The national level serves as the bridge that transforms local traditions into recognized components of a country’s cultural identity through legal frameworks and systematic help. By providing the necessary funding and institutional support, state authorities ensure that safeguarding efforts are coordinated and sustainable.
Regional cooperation acknowledges that intangible heritage often transcends political borders, fostering a sense of shared identity among nations. By aligning their resources and legal frameworks, countries can more effectively address common challenges, ensuring that these “cultural corridors” remain vibrant.
The European Union acts as a catalyst by anchoring intangible heritage within powerful legislative frameworks, such as Article 167 of the TFEU. This ensures that cultural diversity is treated as a core European value rather than a purely local interest. Through initiatives like Creative Europe and Horizon Europe, the EU provides the essential funding to both promote and safeguard ICH.