Introduction
The safeguarding of intangible cultural heritage (ICH) cannot be achieved by communities alone—it requires strategic collaboration among multiple stakeholders: governments, NGOs, international organizations, research institutions, private donors, and, most importantly, the communities themselves. Building partnerships and pooling resources ensures both the preservation and the sustainable promotion of living traditions.
This lesson examines the role of NGOs, state agencies, and international cooperation in safeguarding ICH, with a special focus on examples from Bulgaria. We will also see how frameworks such as UNESCO’s 2003 Convention and Bulgaria’s Innovation Strategy for Smart Specialisation (ISSS) integrate ICH into broader cultural, economic, and development policies.
1. UNESCO and NGO Participation
UNESCO has recognized the central role of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in safeguarding ICH. Through the 2003 Convention, it has:
- Established an Intergovernmental Committee and an Intangible Heritage Fund;
- Called for national reporting mechanisms;
- Accredited over 170 NGOs worldwide (since 2010), encouraging their advisory role and direct engagement with communities.
NGOs are often closest to heritage bearers and can provide valuable expertise in identification, documentation, and awareness-raising. They are also encouraged to apply for UNESCO accreditation, especially NGOs from developing countries.
2. National and Regional Coordination
States Parties to the Convention are urged to:
- Establish coordination mechanisms to involve communities, groups, and experts in inventories, nomination files, and project development;
- Develop stakeholder directories (scientists, artisans, artists, research centers) to serve as resources for cultural safeguarding (Article 13, 2003 Convention).
In Bulgaria, good examples include:
- National Committee of ICOMOS – Bulgaria;
- Bulgarian History Association;
- Balkan Heritage Foundation;
- NGO “Meshtera – Traditional Knowledge and Crafts.”
These organizations ensure that safeguarding is not just a top-down effort, but a participatory and inclusive process.
3. Innovation Strategies and Funding Frameworks
Bulgaria’s Innovation Strategy for Smart Specialisation (ISSS) 2021–2027 integrates ICH within broader innovation and economic policies. It supports:
- Digitalization of cultural heritage (archives, virtual museums);
- Innovative products and services (tourism, education, cultural experiences);
- Creative industries (crafts, folklore, design).
Financing is provided through programs like:
- Competitiveness and Innovation in Enterprises (CIEP);
- Research, Innovation and Digitalization for Smart Transformation (RIDST).
This alignment demonstrates how cultural heritage can be positioned as a driver for sustainability, local development, and competitiveness.
4. Collaboration Strategies
Effective safeguarding requires multilevel collaboration:
- State agencies provide resources, expertise, and institutional frameworks (e.g., advisory boards, working groups, cultural development strategies).
- NGOs engage directly with communities, facilitate documentation, and promote exchange of practices.
- Private donors can be mobilized through tailored sponsorship proposals, backed by transparency and accountability.
- Communities remain central, actively engaged in transmitting knowledge, organizing festivals, and promoting their identity.
Regional cooperation further strengthens this effort. Bulgaria participates in initiatives like:
- Council of Ministers of Culture of Southeast Europe;
- Black Sea Economic Cooperation;
- International Foundation “Forum of Slavic Cultures”;
- Danube Cooperation;
- 17+1 Initiative;
- EU’s Network of Cultural Institutes.
These partnerships provide untapped potential for expanding cultural exchanges and building sustainable safeguarding models.
Case Study: Koprivshtica Festival
(Provided by PAX Rhodopica)
The Koprivshtica Festival is one of the most emblematic celebrations of Bulgarian folklore. Its safeguarding and promotion illustrate how collaboration among NGOs, state agencies, and local communities can ensure the survival of traditional music, dance, and crafts. Funding support and regional partnerships have transformed this festival into an international symbol of Bulgarian ICH, while still rooted in local community identity.
📺 Video Resource: Koprivshtica Case Study
Reflection Questions
- What are the potential risks if collaboration excludes communities—the primary bearers of heritage?
- Why is NGO participation so important in the safeguarding of ICH?
- How can innovation strategies (like ISSS) connect cultural heritage with economic development?