Algiers, December 30, 2025 – The Ministry of Culture and Arts has officially inaugurated a National Committee dedicated to monitoring and managing files related to intangible cultural heritage. This initiative underscores the Algerian government’s commitment to protecting, preserving, and promoting its rich cultural heritage through a comprehensive and strategic approach.
According to a ministry statement, the establishment of this committee reflects a concerted effort to streamline the national inventory of intangible cultural elements. It aims to ensure systematic control over the preparation and processing of heritage files, both domestically and for submission to UNESCO, guaranteeing accuracy, consistency, and efficiency.
Minister of Culture and Arts, Malika Ben Douda, emphasized that intangible cultural heritage forms a cornerstone of national identity. She stressed the need for a rigorous scientific and institutional approach, fostering close inter-sectoral coordination among various stakeholders. The Minister also highlighted the importance of moving beyond ad-hoc solutions towards a proactive and sustainable management framework.
The National Committee will play a pivotal role in organizing the inventory process, setting national priorities, tracking file progress, and standardizing documentation methodologies. Furthermore, it will propose legal and regulatory mechanisms to safeguard intangible cultural heritage from the risks of extinction.
This move reflects the Ministry’s dedication to establishing effective cultural governance for intangible heritage. By providing a comprehensive national framework, the initiative aims to ensure information control, promote traditional knowledge, involve experts and researchers, and link inventory efforts with scientific research, digitization, and skills transfer.
The committee is expected to enhance Algeria’s international standing by preparing comprehensive nomination files that showcase the nation’s rich and diverse culture. This will solidify Algeria’s position as an active and committed nation in protecting intangible cultural heritage in its human and universal dimensions.
The Ministry of Culture and Arts affirms that preserving intangible cultural heritage is a strategic choice and a national imperative. It requires diligent monitoring, controlled processes, and continuous efforts to ensure the transmission of this cultural legacy to future generations, while preserving its authenticity and adapting to contemporary challenges.
