20 May 2025
The Secretariat is deeply saddened by the passing of Professor Kristin Kuutma, a recognized scholar, influential cultural heritage thinker, member of the Global network of facilitators under the 2003 Convention, and Head of the UNESCO Chair on Applied Studies of Intangible Cultural Heritage at the University of Tartu, Estonia.
Following Estonia’s ratification of the Convention in 2006, Professor Kuutma represented Estonia on the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage. Estonia served as Vice-Chair of the first session of the Intergovernmental Committee (1.COM). Professor Kuutma chaired the Estonian National Commission for UNESCO from 2008 to 2022.
Committed to bridging academic approaches with grassroots perspectives of communities and bearers, Professor Kuutma’s work has shaped the understanding of many generations of young researchers in Estonia and far beyond.
Kristin Kuutma also made a significant contribution to supporting the participation of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in the implementation of the 2003 Convention.
The Secretariat extends its heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, colleagues, and her students. Her enduring contributions to living heritage safeguarding and her commitment to international cooperation will be remembered with deep respect and gratitude.
