The destination supports the celebration and protection of intangible cultural heritage, including local traditions, arts, music, language, gastronomy and other aspects of local identity and distinctiveness. The presentation, replication and interpretation of living culture and traditions is sensitive and respectful, seeks to involve and benefit local communities, and provides visitors with an authentic and genuine experience.
Example: Belize
Belize’s National Cultural Policy prioritizes the safeguarding and celebration of intangible heritage through strong legal frameworks and inclusive, community-based strategies. Institutions such as the National Institute of Culture and History (NICH) and its departments, especially the Institute for Social and Cultural Research (ISCR), play a central role in researching, documenting, and safeguarding living heritage. These efforts preserve and protect oral traditions, music, languages, rituals, as well as crafts, while ensuring participation across all ethnic groups, offering visitors authentic, community-led experiences that sustain Belize’s local identity and pride.
Learn More
Belize National Cultural Policy 2016-2026
Belize Living Heritage developed by the Institute for Social and Cultural Research (ISCR) of the National Institute of Culture and History (NICH)
