After the inspiring Kick-Off event in July, the ENFP network continues its series on Ethics in the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage. The next session will take place on:
17 September 2025
10:00–12:00 CET
Online via Zoom:
This second meeting will address the theme: Animal Welfare & Nature-Based Intangible Cultural Heritage. Many ICH practices are deeply connected with animals and the natural environment, which raises important questions: How can safeguarding respect both tradition and evolving ethical standards? How can tensions between community agency, animal welfare, and environmental concerns be navigated? And what role can focal points play when controversies arise in public or media debates?
Programme Highlights
The session will open with a general introduction and recap of the July meeting, followed by a short poll on pressing issues related to ICH and animal welfare. Expert inputs will be provided by:
- Living Heritage Entitity, on references from the 2003 Convention (TBC),
- Chantal Bisschop, presenting concrete international examples, and
- Cristina Biasetto, sharing Austrian experiences.
A central part of the session will be the breakout discussions. Participants will be invited to join one of five thematic rooms, each exploring concrete dilemmas through case studies and peer exchange:
- (Non)-collaboration with animal welfare NGOs, environmental groups, and state authorities
- Managing tensions between “tradition” and contemporary ethical concerns
- Lack of clear guidelines or ethical frameworks for focal points
- Handling public/media debates after inscription or in cases of conflict
- Balancing safeguarding of practices with environmental legislation and sustainability goals
The breakout conversations will be followed by a plenary summary of key insights and closing remarks, including an announcement of the next session in the series.
The safeguarding of ICH is inseparable from broader ethical challenges. Whether dealing with animals, forests, or land rights, communities and focal points often face contested values and conflicting expectations. This session offers a safe space for stakeholders across Europe and beyond to share experiences, reflect on dilemmas, and explore constructive ways forward.
We warmly invite you to join us for this second session and contribute to the collective exploration of how ICH safeguarding can engage responsibly with animal welfare and environmental sustainability.
Image reference: Plough day Wezemaal (BE) 2018 © Ann Muys
