The Global Facilitators Network is the backbone of the capacity-building programme, established in 2009, under the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage. The network has been instrumental in delivering capacity-building workshops, providing preparatory assistance, and supporting national initiatives.

The network is well regarded, in particular, for its expertise, its ways of operating, facilitators’ in-depth understanding of the 2003 Convention and its mechanisms, as well as the network’s contributions to teaching, research, and community engagement in safeguarding intangible cultural heritage.

In response to growing demands for capacity building support and in order to take into account thematic developments under the Convention, the network has expanded to 248 members worldwide following a global call in 2022.

Purpose & Objectives

Following the similar initiative held last year, the information webinar will provide members of the network with the 2026 online training schedule, which includes sessions on key topics such as living heritage and sustainable urban development, as well as living heritage in situations of conflict and displacement.

The session will also offer updates on recent developments under the 2003 Convention and provide an opportunity to discuss the sustainability and the strategic use of the Global Facilitators Network.

A series of training sessions are planned with a thematic focus as indicated below:

Documents

• Agenda and timetable (LHE/26/TRA GLO/1) 
• List of invitees (LHE/26/TRA GLO/2.Rev)

Presentations

• Recent developments under the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage: English|French
• Ensure the sustainability and strategic use of the Global Facilitators Network: English|French

Recording of the webinar