Algeria has been elected Vice-Chair of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage for the upcoming session. The election took place during the 20th ordinary session of the committee held in New Delhi on Friday.
According to a statement released today by the Ministry of Culture and Arts, Algeria will serve as Vice-Chair for the 21st session of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee, scheduled for 2026. This prestigious appointment reflects Algeria’s commitment to preserving and promoting its rich cultural heritage, as well as its active role within the international community in safeguarding intangible cultural heritage worldwide.
The Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage plays a crucial role in implementing the UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage. This convention aims to protect and promote traditional practices, knowledge, and expressions that are passed down from generation to generation, such as oral traditions, performing arts, social practices, rituals, festive events, knowledge and practices concerning nature and the universe, and the skills to produce traditional crafts.
Algeria’s election to this key position underscores its dedication to these goals. The country has a diverse and vibrant intangible cultural heritage, and has been actively working to document, protect, and promote it through various initiatives and programs. This includes supporting traditional artisans, promoting cultural festivals, and incorporating intangible cultural heritage into education.
The Ministry of Culture and Arts expressed its pride in this achievement, emphasizing Algeria’s ongoing commitment to working with UNESCO and other member states to safeguard intangible cultural heritage for future generations. This election marks a significant step for Algeria in its efforts to champion cultural preservation on a global scale.
