17 Jun 2026
11th General Assembly on Intangible Cultural Heritage, Paris 2026
CIOFF® International is pleased to participate in the 11th General Assembly of the States Parties to the 2003 UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, taking place at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris on 17-18 June 2026.
This presence highlights the vital, ongoing collaboration between our organization and UNESCO, representing a key milestone for our global network.
A Dual Recognition within UNESCO
CIOFF® holds a unique and prestigious position within the UNESCO framework, benefiting from two major distinctions:
This represents the highest possible level of partnership an NGO can achieve with the Organization.
Accredited since 2012, CIOFF® provides advisory services to the Intergovernmental Committee for the implementation of the 2003 Convention.
The regular quadrennial accreditation following the comprehensive report submitted by CIOFF® in 2025 is being officially reviewed during this General Assembly. This process recognizes the tireless dedication of CIOFF® festivals, groups, volunteers, and national sections in safeguarding and promoting living heritage worldwide.
Expanding the Global Heritage Network
The 2003 Convention continues to unite nations around a shared mission: to recognize, protect, and transmit the living expressions of humanity. During this session, the global community officially welcomes Sierra Leone and South Africa as the newest States Parties to the Convention.
Stay Connected and Follow Live
The proceedings and debates can be followed live in the six official languages of UNESCO. Key resources and live streams are available through the following links:
Official 11th General Assembly Information: UNESCO ICH 11GA
Current List of States Parties: UNESCO States Parties
Live Broadcast: UNESCO Live Retransmission
CIOFF®’s active participation at UNESCO serves as a powerful reminder of our core mission: to keep music, dance, rituals, and popular expressions thriving in the service of intercultural dialogue and global peace.
Fot. Jean Pascal Mariot
