The traditional Li textile techniques of spinning, dyeing, weaving and embroidering are employed by women of the Li ethnic group of Hainan Province, China, to make textiles out of fibres such as cotton and hemp. The patterns used record the history and legends of Li culture as well as aspects of worship, taboos, beliefs, traditions and folkways. They are an indispensable part of the cultural heritage of the Li ethnic group, allowing communities to strengthen their shared historical memory and cultural identity.

Held on the first day of the tenth lunar month, the Qiang New Year Festival is an occasion for the Qiang people of China’s Sichuan Province to express their gratitude and reverence, reaffirm their relationship with nature, and promote social and family harmony. A platform for dialogue and exchange between the Qiang people and other communities, the festival has played a key role in rebuilding faith and resilience after the 2008 earthquake while, increasing people’s awareness of food security and environmental protection.

Wooden arch bridges are found in Fujian Province and Zhejiang Province, along China’s southeast coast. A source of livelihood for woodworkers, the bridges – and the traditional techniques and knowledge used to build them – are an integral part of the cultural ecosystem of local villages. They serve as communication channels and cultural spaces, thus enhancing community harmony and cultural identity. Local communities and woodworkers of all genders participate in the construction, maintenance and use of the bridges, as well as in the related folk practices.

Increased commitment by States to living heritage

With over 900 participants from 120 countries, this session of the Committee was the second largest since its creation, reflecting the growing importance attached to intangible cultural heritage.

Among the elements presented this year, 16 were multinational inscriptions submitted by 62 countries, an increase of one third compared to the previous session. This 2024 session also marks the first inscription for 5 countries: Brunei Darussalam, Ghana, Myanmar, Rwanda and Somalia.

These inscriptions reflect the growing role of the Intangible Cultural Heritage Convention in strengthening dialogue and cooperation between States, as well as their shared desire to promote this living heritage beyond their national borders.

Africa's commitment to safeguarding its living heritage was confirmed at this session with the inscription of 9 elements by 12 countries and the announcement of the ratification of the Convention by two additional countries: Sierra Leone and South Africa.

Intangible cultural heritage at the heart of social cohesion

Many of the elements inscribed this year illustrate the capacity of intangible cultural heritage to strengthen social ties. In this respect, 44% of them contribute to more inclusive societies, either because they foster integration within communities in a spirit of solidarity, or because they take the form of festive social gatherings, rites of passage or ceremonies linked to the community and the family setting. At least 13 elements are passed on within the family circle.

The 11 culinary practices inscribed this year also promote living together. By creating moments of sharing and conviviality, they are increasingly seen as essential bridges between the generations, bringing communities together. 

The next meeting of the Committee will take place in December 2025 in New Delhi, India.