Purpose of the Lists of Intangible Cultural Heritage and of the Register of Good Safeguarding Practices

The Committee meets annually to evaluate nominations proposed by States Parties to the 2003 Convention and decide whether or not to inscribe those cultural practices and expressions of intangible heritage on the Convention’s Lists.

List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding

Elements inscribed on the USL

The List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding (see criteria) is composed of intangible heritage elements that concerned communities and States Parties consider require urgent measures to keep them alive. Inscriptions on this List help to mobilize international cooperation and assistance for stakeholders to undertake appropriate safeguarding measures.

Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity

Elements inscribed on the RL

The Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity (see criteria) is made up of those intangible heritage elements that help demonstrate the diversity of this heritage and raise awareness about its importance.

Register of Good Safeguarding Practices

Good Safeguarding practices selected

The Register of Good Safeguarding Practices (see criteria) contains programs, projects and activities that best reflect the principles and the objectives of the Convention.