Champions Cultural Heritage at UNESCO’s 20th Session in New Delhi
New Delhi, India – December 10, 2025 – CIOFF® International took an active role at the 20th Session of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (20.COM), held December 8–13 at the historic Red Fort in New Delhi.
As an accredited NGO in official partnership with UNESCO, CIOFF® International works to promote and protect intangible cultural heritage worldwide. Its presence at the session reinforced the organization’s ongoing commitment to cultural preservation and international collaboration.
CIOFF® was represented by Katarina Čović, its Youth Representative to UNESCO, who engaged with global NGO leaders in discussions on safeguarding cultural traditions and strengthening youth participation in cultural initiatives.
The session brought together representatives from over 180 countries to review nominations for UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage lists and address key policies under the 2003 Convention. Among the highlights was the recognition of practices such as Deepavali (Diwali), underscoring the importance of preserving living traditions that connect communities worldwide.
CIOFF® International’s participation demonstrates its dedication to fostering intergenerational dialogue, supporting youth engagement, and ensuring that cultural heritage continues to thrive across generations.
