Intangible Cultural Heritage and Sustainable Development: Inside a UNESCO Convention

Intangible Cultural Heritage and Sustainable Development: Inside a UNESCO Convention explores the theoretical and practical implications of the intertwinement between ICH and SD,questioning how SD priorities are expanding the frontiers of the heritage realm and unsettling accepted understandings of the social uses of heritage. Contributing authors,from various disciplines and contexts,explore these issues from a unique vantage point,based on first-hand engagement with the practices of the Convention.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 210 pages
Publication date: 19 December 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Drawing on extensive debates surrounding intangible cultural heritage (ICH) safeguarding at both local and international levels, Intangible Cultural Heritage and Sustainable Development: Inside a UNESCO Convention delves into the theoretical and practical implications of the intricate relationship between these policy domains. The volume raises important questions about how sustainable development (SD) priorities are shaping the representations of ICH, challenging established notions of the social uses of heritage. A diverse group of contributing authors, hailing from various contexts and disciplinary backgrounds, explore these issues from a unique perspective, as both scholars and active participants in the processes they analyze. Their roles in implementing the UNESCO Convention provide them with a distinctive analytical vantage point, grounded in firsthand engagement with the practices and principles of the Convention.

Intangible Cultural Heritage and Sustainable Development: Inside a UNESCO Convention offers a comprehensive exploration of the complexities, potential, and ramifications of integrating ICH and SD at the policy-making level and in heritage practices on the ground. This book will appeal to academics and students engaged in heritage studies, development studies, anthropology, archaeology, international law, political science, international relations, and sociology. By examining the interplay between these two policy fields, the volume provides valuable insights into the ways in which SD is expanding the boundaries of the heritage realm and reshaping our understanding of the social significance of heritage.

The contributing authors in this book bring a wealth of expertise and experience to the table, having played diverse roles in the implementation of the UNESCO Convention. Their insider perspectives, derived from their firsthand engagement with the practices and principles of the Convention, offer a rich and nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with combining ICH and SD. Through their scholarly contributions and practical insights, the authors shed light on the ways in which ICH can contribute to sustainable development goals, as well as the potential risks and challenges that arise from such integrations.

One of the key themes explored in the book is the role of ICH in promoting social inclusion and equity. The authors argue that ICH represents the cultural heritage of marginalized communities and groups, and its preservation and promotion can help to address historical injustices and promote social cohesion. By recognizing and valuing the diverse expressions of ICH, societies.

Another important aspect of the book is the consideration of the economic benefits of ICH preservation and promotion. The authors highlight the potential for ICH to generate tourism revenue, create employment opportunities, and promote local entrepreneurship. By leveraging the economic value of ICH, communities can invest in its preservation and sustainable management, ensuring its long-term viability and relevance.

However, the book also acknowledges the challenges and risks associated with combining ICH and SD. One of the primary concerns is the potential for ICH to be commodified and commercialized, leading to its exploitation and appropriation by external interests. The authors argue that it is essential to strike a balance between the commercialization of ICH and its preservation and promotion as a cultural asset that belongs to the communities it represents.

Furthermore, the book raises important questions about the sustainability of heritage practices and the impact of development projects on ICH. The authors argue that sustainable development should be integrated into heritage management practices to ensure that the cultural heritage is protected and preserved for future generations. They also emphasize the need for community-based approaches to heritage management, which involve the active participation of local communities in decision-making processes and the sharing of benefits and responsibilities.

In conclusion, Intangible Cultural Heritage and Sustainable Development: Inside a UNESCO Convention is a groundbreaking work that offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the complex relationship between ICH and SD. By bringing together a diverse range of perspectives and experiences, the book provides valuable insights into the ways in which these two policy fields can be integrated to promote sustainable development, social inclusion, and cultural heritage preservation. This book will be of interest to academics, policymakers, practitioners, and community members alike engaged in the fields of heritage studies, development studies, anthropology, archaeology, international law, political science, international relations, and sociology.

Weight: 338g
Dimension: 156 x 234 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032154336