Intangible Cultural Heritage as Co‑Creation: Challenges, Pathways and Conditions

Abstract

Since the 1970s, global heritage discourse—particularly within UNESCO—has increasingly recognised the importance of cultural diversity, leading to concepts like Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) that challenge Eurocentric definitions of heritage. While the 2003 UNESCO Convention promotes community-based approaches, implementing these ideals in practice remains fraught with challenges. ICH initiatives often fall short of inclusivity, inadvertently reinforcing social hierarchies and exclusion.

This chapter explores the potential of co-creation as a pathway to more equitable and sustainable ICH practices. Drawing on international case studies and an analytical framework, we highlight the conditions necessary for co-creation to move beyond policy rhetoric and foster genuine cultural participation. Our contribution lies in offering practical tools and critical insights for integrating co-creation into ICH governance, with particular relevance for researchers and practitioners working at the intersection of heritage and community engagement.