Introduction
In Bulgaria, there are successful examples of initiatives aimed at preserving and promoting intangible cultural heritage (ICH). This lesson highlights the role of the UNESCO Regional Centre for the Safeguarding of ICH in South-Eastern Europe (based in Sofia), networks of cooperation, and the Living Human Treasures programme, illustrating good practices at both regional and national levels.
Content
The Regional Centre for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage in South-Eastern Europe under the auspices of UNESCO, registered in Sofia, is an important example. It plays a key role in coordinating efforts to safeguard ICH in the region and in promoting cooperation among various stakeholders.
The UNESCO Regional Centre in Sofia promotes regional and international cooperation by creating specialized networks for coordinating activities and exchanging information on the safeguarding of intangible cultural heritage.
- In its efforts to safeguard ICH in South-Eastern Europe, UNESCO, through the Regional Bureau for Science and Culture in Europe, established the Regional Network of Experts on Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2007. This network provides a platform for the exchange of experience and knowledge among experts from the region, with annual meetings held in various countries contributing to strengthening cooperation.
- To support capacity building for the implementation of the 2003 Convention at the national level, the Centre initiated in 2018 and maintains a network of universities in the region to strengthen communication between universities, researchers, institutions, and bearers of ICH, as well as to encourage information exchange and future cooperation.
- In addition, the Regional Centre establishes and maintains a network of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) active in the field of ICH in the region. This network aims to encourage the participation of NGOs in the processes of safeguarding and promoting ICH, as well as to create a platform for regular communication and information sharing.
- Through information sessions, the UNESCO Regional Centre Sofia aims to inform about the possibilities for accreditation to UNESCO and to promote a more balanced geographical representation of NGOs accredited to the 2003 Convention, with a focus on the South-Eastern Europe region.
📎 Additional information about this network can be found in the Facebook group: Regional Centre for ICH in South-Eastern Europe.
There is also a Network of Category 2 Centres for Intangible Cultural Heritage. These centres, established and funded by Member States, contribute to the achievement of UNESCO’s strategic goals. The Regional Centre for the Safeguarding of ICH in South-Eastern Europe under the auspices of UNESCO is one of these centres, which actively promotes cooperation and implements initiatives for the safeguarding and promotion of ICH in the region.
It is particularly important to encourage the bearers of intangible cultural heritage to practice the activities and transmit knowledge and skills to future generations. Bulgaria is fortunate to still possess, to this day, a significantly preserved form of folk culture in its syncretism – as an inseparable combination of sound, movement, word, ritual, etc.
UNESCO created the UNESCO pilot program “Living Human Treasures”, of which “Living Human Treasures – Bulgaria” is a part. Along with this, Guidelines for the Establishment of National “Living Human Treasures” Systems have been formulated (UNESCO Guidelines PDF).
Case Studies & Further Readings
- Regional Centre for the Safeguarding of ICH in South-Eastern Europe (Sofia) – key institution for promoting regional cooperation and good practices.
- “Living Heritage” Journal – publication of the Regional Centre in Sofia, disseminating knowledge and good practices on safeguarding ICH.
- Bulgaria’s National Implementation and “Living Human Treasures” Programme – UNESCO reports highlighting the work of the National Centre for ICH, the success of the National Living Human Treasures System, and the essential role of Chitalishta (Community Cultural Centres).
Reflection Questions
- How does the “Living Human Treasures” program strengthen the transmission of knowledge and practices?
- How do regional networks (experts, universities, NGOs) contribute to safeguarding ICH?
- Why is Bulgaria’s folk culture described as syncretic, and why is this important for safeguarding?