the problematic of intangible cultural heritage

This article considers the establishment of the category of ICH within the United Nations Organization for Education, Science and Culture (UNESCO) and examines the key principles of the international Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage that institutes this heritage category at the global level. Drawing on anthropological analyses of theoretical conundrums and practical hitches associated with the implementation of the UNESCO Convention at both the institutional and the community levels, the article critically assesses the concept of ICH and reflexively considers the different modes of anthropological engagement with this field.