South Africa has become the 184th State to join the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage following the deposit of its instrument of ratification with UNESCO in January 2025.
“South Africa will soon and officially be part of a worldwide network dedicated to supporting communities in safeguarding their living heritage for the benefit of present and future generations. This ratification marks a significant milestone, further expanding the Living Heritage network in Africa in alignment with UNESCO’s Global Priorities. UNESCO welcomes South Africa and looks forward to supporting its safeguarding efforts at the national level,” read a statement on UNESCO’s page.
On January 24, 2025, South Africa deposited its instrument of ratification of the Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage. In accordance with the terms outlined in Article 34, the Convention will come into force three months after the date of the deposit, on April 24, 2025.
