Algiers Hosts Cultural Heritage Congress on Digital Promotion
The International Congress on the Promotion of Intangible Cultural Heritage concluded its proceedings at the Palace of Culture Moufdi Zakaria, held from September 28 to 29. Organized in collaboration between Algeria's Ministry of Culture and Arts and the Arab League Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organization (ALECSO), the closing session was chaired by Minister of Culture and Arts, Malika Ben Douda, who lauded the quality of interventions and discussions throughout the event.
Minister Ben Douda highlighted that the congress provided momentum for an advanced stage in managing and promoting human heritage. She emphasized a transition from merely reviewing international agreements on heritage valuation to implementing public policies and promotion strategies, notably through the integration of digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and digital and participatory platforms. The Minister further affirmed the congress's true value lay in the ideas presented, which demonstrated the capacity of heritage within the Arab world to contribute to shaping the future, achieving development, and enhancing Arab heritage's presence on international forums.
The gathering culminated in several key recommendations, including efforts to harmonize policies and legislation concerning Arab heritage elements registered on UNESCO lists. Participants stressed the importance of enhancing documentation and leveraging digitalization and modern media for preserving and promoting cultural assets. Proposals also included the establishment of a joint Arab platform for living Arab heritage and the formulation of a shared Arab strategy to promote intangible cultural heritage, fostering its economic and social valuation and linking it to sustainable development and cultural tourism.
Furthermore, participants underscored the critical role of strengthening Arab and international cooperation, alongside the exchange of expertise and experiences. Recommendations called for the active involvement of heritage bearers and local communities in documentation, inventory, promotion, and valuation processes, while also emphasizing the protection of heritage elements from distortion, alteration, and illicit exploitation. The congress proposed organizing regular meetings for UNESCO-listed heritage elements to ensure continuous dialogue and collaboration in the field of intangible cultural heritage preservation, bringing together representatives from various Arab nations, as well as Algerian and international experts and researchers.
