Promoting the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH)

World Movie Awards Americas promotes the safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) and honors professional excellence in cinema.

In support of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s (UNESCO) Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Culture Heritage, the World Movie Awards Organization and its subsidiaries shall confer awards on motion pictures that incorporate, safeguard, and promote the ICH elements on the lists of the Intangible Cultural Heritage and the Register of Good Safeguarding Practices.

Countries that are not on the list of UNESCO’s ICH elements shall incorporate, safeguard, and promote their cultural items in motion pictures for the awards consideration.

The word Intangible is immaterial, referring to something untouchable. Culture is the traditional values that define who you are and your identity. Heritage is a precious thing that is passed down from one generation to another. In short, intangible cultural heritage is the traditional values, living expressions, and customs that are transmitted from one generation to the next.

Intangible Cultural Heritage plays essential roles in:

- Promoting tolerance, peace, and reconciliation
- Fostering community and individual well-being
- Promoting human rights and sustainable development

What is an Intangible Cultural Heritage?

Why is the Intangible Cultural
Heritage important?

What happens when we pay attention to the Intangible Cultural Heritage?

- The heritage of humanity is richer and more diverse. Minorities and smaller communities are more healthy and resilient.
- We support activities that may be economically viable for craftspeople and communities.
- We improve our understanding of one another within and across communities.
- We are connected with the elements of our community histories and natural environments that help us understand who we are.

So how can we safeguard the Intangible Cultural Heritage?

For us, the first step in safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage is raising awareness through global cinema: making sure people understand what it is and why it deserves protection.