The European Network of Focal Points for the 2003 Convention (ENFP) held its autumn online meeting on 5 November 2025, gathering focal points, facilitators, and experts from across Europe for an exchange on current developments and priorities in the safeguarding of living heritage. The session offered a valuable opportunity to reflect on the year’s progress and look ahead to 2026.
Looking ahead to 20.COM
Participants discussed the upcoming 20th session of the Intergovernmental Committee (8–13 December 2025, New Delhi). The Steering Committee briefly presented the expected programme and confirmed that UNESCO will release all working documents shortly. Members were invited to follow the updates on the Convention’s website and prepare their contributions accordingly.
Beyond the practical preparations, members of the network highlighted several key topics expected to shape the debates this year:
- A record number of nominations will be examined, which may reopen discussions on the long-term sustainability of the listing system.
- The Committee will review new developments under Article 18, including safeguarding practices and the evolving role of the Article 18 platform.
- Several policy-related items are expected, touching on the monitoring framework, the next global periodic reporting cycle, and synergies with other UNESCO conventions.
- Updates on thematic initiatives related to climate change, creativity, and ICH in urban contexts may also feature in the discussions.
Updates from the South-East European Expert Meeting
Ioana Baskerville (FP Romania – SC) shared insights from the 19th Annual Meeting of the South-East European Experts Network on Intangible Cultural Heritage, which brought together representatives from across the subregion to discuss current priorities and challenges under both the 2003 and 1972 Conventions.
The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation between the two conventions, particularly in areas where tangible and intangible heritage intersect—a topic that continues to gain relevance in the region. Discussions also touched upon the need for improved coordination among regional institutions and the importance of reinforcing subregional exchanges.
Although the final report is not yet available, Ioana highlighted several emerging priorities:
- the growing interest in holistic approaches to heritage,
- the need for more strategic capacity-building,
- and the value of sharing national experiences in a more structured way.
Update on MONDIACULT 2025
The meeting also included a brief update on MONDIACULT 2025, held earlier this year in Barcelona. Members highlighted its key role in shaping the discussions around the post-2030 global development agenda, particularly the proposal to establish culture as a standalone Sustainable Development Goal. The event brought together a wide range of actors — from governments to civil society — and underlined the importance of keeping living heritage visible within broader cultural policy conversations.
A more detailed article on MONDIACULT 2025 is available on the ENFP website for those wishing to explore the event’s outcomes and debates further.
Ethical Considerations in ICH Safeguarding
Cristina Biasetto (FP Austria) presented updates on the ENFP Ethics Initiative, which has generated strong interest and participation across the network.
Following an initial survey and a well-attended kick-off session in July, a series of peer exchange meetings is currently underway, covering:
- ethical questions related to animal welfare and nature-based ICH,
- dialogue and informed consent, commodification and tension with the “authorised heritage discourse”,
- practical tools for addressing complex ethical dilemmas.
The dedicated ENFP Ethics webpage now brings together background information, upcoming sessions, and summaries are available. Members are warmly invited to contribute case examples or participate in the last session of 2025.
Open Call for the 2026 ENFP Working Topic
Building on the findings of the spring 2025 survey, the Steering Committee invited all members to suggest themes for the 2026 working topic. Key areas of interest emerging from earlier consultations include:
- ICH in urban contexts,
- cultural and creative industries,
- ICH and crises,
- and the use of AI in the field of living heritage.
One of the most prominent suggestions concerned national inventorying systems under the 2003 Convention. Members expressed interest in comparing how inventories are structured in different countries, how communities are involved, and how entries are updated or adapted over time. Given the diversity of approaches across Europe, this topic could offer valuable opportunities for peer learning.
The Steering Committee encouraged members to continue sharing their suggestions so that next year’s programme can best reflect the needs and expectations of the network.
Communication Updates
The Steering Committee shared updates on the upcoming newsletter, currently being prepared for publication. Members are warmly encouraged to continue sending contributions — news, events, publications, or opportunities — to ensure that the newsletter remains a dynamic tool for exchange.
Looking Forward
As the network moves toward the end of the year, the Steering Committee expressed its appreciation for the strong engagement and contributions coming from across the region.
Looking ahead, 2026 will offer new opportunities to deepen cooperation, explore shared challenges, and strengthen the visibility of intangible cultural heritage within broader cultural and policy debates. The Steering Committee warmly invites all members to stay active, contribute their perspectives, and help shape the network’s direction in the months to come.
The ENFP remains a vibrant community of practice, and the Steering Committee invites all members to stay connected, share their experiences, and continue shaping the network’s collective work.
Culture, Rights and Global Dialogue: From MONDIACULT to Agora Civica
European Network of Focal Points (ENFP)
Previous meetings:
ENFP Network meeting on 30 October 2024
ENFP meeting at the 10th UNESCO General Assembly
Key points from the ENFP meeting on 15 February 2024
ENFP meeting – We are #LivingHeritage
