China’s Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) Law, which took effect in 2011, has made significant strides in protecting intangible heritage items, according to a report by the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress. This law, which emerged from a comprehensive review spanning various provinces, aims to uphold the value of traditional culture while promoting social harmony and sustainable development. The report states that public awareness about ICH protection has heightened, and the role of ICH in contemporary society has been increasingly recognized.
The ICH law has led to the recognition of over 100,000 heritage items, with 1,557 deemed national-level items. More than 40 of these items are included in UNESCO’s prestigious list. The law establishes a framework that encompasses three systems: an investigation system for reviewing implementation, a representative ICH system for resource allocation, and a dissemination system to ensure broad public and institutional involvement in ICH protection. This multifaceted approach emphasizes the authenticity and cultural significance of heritage items.
The law also fosters rural tourism by exploring cultural markets that reflect local ethnic characteristics. Since its enactment, the central budget has allocated 10.35 billion yuan ($1.46 billion) towards safeguarding and promoting national ICH items. Local workshops, especially in economically disadvantaged regions, have successfully created jobs and nurtured local traditions. Such initiatives not only enhance local economy but also preserve cultural heritage.
Despite the progress, the implementation of the ICH law faces challenges such as lacking integration with local economic plans and insufficient resources at the grassroots level. The report urges for the establishment of a national database for ICH resources and projects, improved access to ICH experiences, and better integration of these cultural elements with the tourism sector. A call for revising the ICH law reflects a desire to keep pace with evolving needs and improve governmental support.
As China leads the global commitment to safeguarding intangible heritage, it showcases a systematic legal framework that aligns with international standards. Experts cite legislative advancements as crucial in raising awareness and cultivating talent within the protection domain. The law’s continuous evolution promises to strengthen ICH’s role within society, enriching both cultural heritage and community livelihoods.
China’s Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) Law, effective since 2011, has effectively safeguarded over 100,000 traditional heritage items, enhancing public awareness and promoting rural tourism. The law supports local economies through cultural workshops and encourages the establishment of legal frameworks that align with international standards. However, challenges in integration with local development and resource allocation remain, prompting calls for revisions to strengthen ICH protection further.
In summary, the Intangible Cultural Heritage Law has made significant improvements in protecting and promoting China’s rich cultural tapestry since its implementation. Although challenges such as funding and integration persist, the ongoing evolution of the law demonstrates China’s commitment to enriching its cultural heritage and ensuring sustainable tourism growth. As the global leader in this domain, China is continuously enhancing its legal structure to safeguard and celebrate its cultural identity.
The article discusses China’s efforts to protect intangible cultural heritage through its Intangible Cultural Heritage Law, enacted in 2011. This law aims to preserve traditional culture while benefiting local economies, especially in rural regions. The content evaluates the positive impact of legal frameworks on cultural preservation, the promotion of tourism, and the recognition of local heritage while addressing challenges that remain in the execution and integration of ICH with the local socioeconomic landscape.
Original Source: www.chinadaily.com.cn
