Sharjah International Centre Strengthens Its Global Presence and Participates in UNESCO Coordination Meeting on Intangible Cultural Heritage
The International Centre for Capacity Building in the Field of Intangible Cultural Heritage in the Arab States in Sharjah (ICCBICH) reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening international cooperation and supporting efforts to safeguard intangible cultural heritage through its virtual participation in the 14th Annual Coordination Meeting of UNESCO Category 2 Centres specializing in intangible cultural heritage. The meeting was held today at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris, coinciding with the conclusion of the 11th session of the General Assembly of the States Parties to the 2003 Convention.
Aligning Programmes with UNESCO Priorities
The Centre’s participation reflects its ongoing efforts to align its plans and programmes with UNESCO’s priorities and strategic directions, contributing to the implementation of the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage and enhancing the impact of capacity-building initiatives at both regional and international levels.
A Unified Global Reporting System
The meeting addressed key developments related to the transition towards a unified global reporting system for the periodic reports required under the 2003 Convention. Participants also discussed future mechanisms for cooperation and coordination among international centres. The gathering provided a platform for exchanging expertise and knowledge on effective ways to support States Parties and local communities in preparing periodic reports and strengthening their institutional capacities in this field.
Supporting Arab National Focal Points
During the meeting, the Centre presented its upcoming capacity-building programme for national focal points in Arab countries. The initiative aims to enhance the skills of national professionals and improve their readiness to prepare periodic reports in accordance with the unified global reporting framework and the updated operational directives of the Convention.
Specialized Training Programmes
The Centre also showcased its future training plans and initiatives designed to develop the competencies of practitioners and specialists working in the field of intangible cultural heritage. These programmes seek to strengthen technical and research capacities across the Arab region, supporting efforts to safeguard heritage and transmit it to future generations in line with international best practices.