Requesting International Assistance is easier than it looks, if you join one of our three information sessions. © Alfonso Jiménez

The International Assistance (IA) mechanism is at the very core of the 2003 Convention as it enables an effective and sustainable way of safeguarding intangible cultural heritage. The IA mechanism provides dedicated resources for State Parties to implement a wide range of projects such as programmes, projects and activities dedicated to safeguarding ICH, community-based inventorying, awareness-raising, specific knowledge on safeguarding ICH in emergencies, training of local experts and infrastructures development, to name a few.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of requests for International Assistance under the 2003 Convention has decreased over the last two years. In order to stimulate the use of this mechanism, as restrictions start easing, the Living Heritage Entity is organizing three information sessions to present the aim of the International Assistance mechanism, as well as the modalities and processes for applying to the fund. The recently developed toolkit will also be presented to participants.

These three information sessions will take place in late March and are open to all stakeholders involved in the field of intangible cultural heritage safeguarding. To participate please register in one of the following sessions:

• For the Asia and Pacific region: 22 March 2022 from 9:00 to 11:00 (Paris time). Interpretation will be available in French and English.

• For the Latin America and the Caribbean region: 24 March 2022 from 15:30 to 17:30 (Paris time). Interpretation will be available in English and Spanish.

• For the African, Arab and Central and Eastern European regions: 29 March 2022 from 10:00 to 12:00 (Paris time). Interpretation will be available in French and English.

Don’t hesitate to get involved in safeguarding your living heritage through the International Assistance mechanism.