Introduction

Preamble

Communities around the world have established their own ways to transmit their culture which gives meaning to their lives, strengthens their identity and contributes to their well-being. The tangible manifestations of culture such as buildings, objects, artworks and documents have been recognised as important attributes of culture. However, intangible cultural heritage (ICH) is often ignored. Indigenous knowledge, languages and traditions etc. are fast disappearing particularly among marginalised rural and indigenous communities. The Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2003 triggered discussion and safeguarding actions of ICH at international, national, and communal levels.

This e-study introduces the basic concept of ICH, its importance to rural sustainability, the ICH safeguarding measures, and the ethical principles. Examples of international, national and local initiatives will be provided. A local case in Hong Kong will be presented at the end to illustrate how ICH safeguarding can contribute to rural sustainability.

 
Learning Outcomes

On completion of the e-study, readers should be able to:

1. Demonstrate a basic understanding of ICH;
2. Acknowledge a range of ICH safeguarding principles and measures;
3. Illustrate examples of major safeguarding and management initiatives at international, national and local levels; and
4. Relate ICH management with rural sustainable development.

 

Continue to “Session 1: Intangible Cultural Heritage and its Importance to Rural Sustainability”