Theme & Sub-themes

French

ICOMOS GA2026 Theme LIVING HERITAGE: RESPECT, ENHANCE, ACCEPT, PARTNERSHIP

Humanity has always advanced by building on the experiences of previous generations. Lessons from history inform every new discovery, enabling societies to integrate the past and present seamlessly in order to shape a better future. The concept of cultural heritage has thus evolved into something adaptive and dynamic that is not confined solely to the tangible. It resides in living expressions and traditions, the vitality of its people, extraordinary natural landscapes, distinctive cuisine and open-ended opportunities.

The Scientific Symposium, guided by the overarching theme of 'Living Heritage: Respect, Enhance, Accept, Partnership”, will explore this evolving concept. In doing so, it responds to the ICOMOS Triennial Scientific Plan (TSP) 2024–2027 by respecting diversity, enhancing understanding, embracing progress and fostering partnerships to ensure sustainability and mutual benefit.

Cultural heritage is increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of disasters and conflicts worldwide. Heritage objects, structures, and landscapes of significance—whether at local, national, or global levels—are at growing risk. In most cases, such damaging events cannot be prevented; however, their impacts can be anticipated and mitigated.

Both the TSP 2021–2024 on Climate Change and the TSP 2024–2027 on Disaster- and Conflict-Resilient Heritage employ annual surveys to identify emerging issues and critical knowledge gaps to be addressed over the respective planning periods. Disasters affecting cultural heritage can be broadly categorized into four major types:

  • natural disasters (including earthquakes, floods, tsunamis, cyclones, and landslides)
  • human-induced disasters (such as war, terrorism, industrial activities, mining, development pressures, mass tourism, interpretation practices, and changing borders) 
  • environmental disasters (including soil erosion and pest infestation)
  • technological disasters (such as fires, transportation-related incidents, and industrial accidents).

In response to these challenges, the TSP 2024–2027 aims to enhance the resilience of cultural resources through strengthened emergency response mechanisms, crisis monitoring, risk management and preparedness strategies, and the development and application of best-practice protocols.

The ICOMOS General Assembly adopted the theme “Disaster and Conflict Resilient Heritage” for the TSP 2024–2027. In 2025, the Plan focuses on preparedness—emphasizing the prevention and mitigation of hazards, the strengthening of resilience, and readiness for conflicts that threaten valued cultural heritage resources. In 2026, the Plan advances to the response phase, addressing how cultural heritage sites can effectively respond to disasters and conflicts through five thematic areas, supported by parallel Working Groups.

  1. Developing Research and Policy;
  2. Learning from Traditional Knowledge (Indigenous People and Local Communities);
  3. Facilitating Collaboration;
  4. Improving Communications; and,
  5. Building Capacities.

In RESPONSE to the TSP 2024-2027 theme “DISASTER AND CONFLICT RESILIENT HERITAGE”, The proposed theme for the General Assembly 2026 Symposium is “LIVING HERITAGE: RESPECT, ENHANCE, ACCEPT, PARTNERSHIP” whereby the four (4) sub-themes: RESPECT, ENHANCE, ACCEPT, PARTNERSHIP” aiming to reap resources under the five (5) thematic foci of the TSP 2024-2027.

Additionally, ICOMOS International Scientific Committees and Working Groups are joining force for “Call for Paper” in Session(s) to enrich the data collection and discussion on specific fields and contributing to the implementation of the TSP 2024-2027. To encourage, embrace and enable public participation, Panel Presentations and Exhibition are proposed whereby sharing sessions by experts and voices from public are collected for reflections.

The 2026 ICOMOS General Assembly will celebrate the 80th year of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). Since its establishment, UNESCO has sought to build peace through international cooperation in education, science, and culture, with the aim of fostering lasting peace through economic, political, and cultural understanding among States.

The evolution of conservation philosophy and practice—shaped by State Parties, policymakers, conservation professionals, and non-governmental organizations—aligns closely with UNESCO’s overarching principles.

This evolution reflects the gradual development of conservation concepts and frameworks over time, guided by the shared objective of promoting peace through sustainability, biodiversity conservation, and equity. Over the past eight decades, UNESCO has introduced a series of landmark conventions and innovative programmes, including the Universal Copyright Convention (1952); the Man and the Biosphere Programme (1971); the World Heritage Convention (1972); the Convention on the Protection of Underwater Cultural Heritage (2001); the Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (2003); and the Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions (2005).

For that reason, in conjunction with the UNESCO Commission of Malaysia, there will be a month-long exhibition showcasing selected World Heritage Sites from different regions, reflecting the endeavour of UNESCO over the last 80th years. There will also be side events, such as a ‘Preliminary Assessment’ workshop, World Heritage Masterclass, and sharing sessions on Heritage Impact Assessment and Best Practices amongst different stakeholders, aiming to reap resources under the five (5) thematic loci of the TSP 2024-2027.

Accordingly, the Symposium will be organized according to the following streams, asking presenters to consider the following questions under the four (4) sub-themes and Sessions:

View Programme-at-a-Glance
Call For Abstract

Scientific Symposium Sub-Themes

  • RSUB-THEME 1
  • ESUB-THEME 2
  • ASUB-THEME 3
  • PSUB-THEME 4

RESPECT

“RESPECT” serves as a fundamental pillar in heritage conservation, embodying ethical principles, cultural inclusiveness, and a commitment to safeguarding the diverse values associated with tangible and intangible heritage. Through respect, we recognise heritage not just as a collection of physical artefacts but as a dynamic and evolving narrative, deeply interwoven with the identities, traditions, and knowledge systems of communities. This sub-theme underlines the importance of celebrating the authenticity, diversity, and the socio-cultural contexts that define living heritage while addressing contemporary challenges in a rapidly changing world.

At its core, respect for heritage conservation goes beyond the technical conservation of sites and artefacts. It requires a holistic approach, where the voices of communities are integral to decision-making processes, and where heritage management is both inclusive and ethical. “RESPECT” requires a balance between preserving the past and meeting the needs of the present and future, ensuring that heritage remains relevant, inclusive and meaningful.

This sub-theme is inspired by key ICOMOS charters, including the Nara Document on Authenticity, and the Xi’an Declaration, as well as the Australia ICOMOS Burra Charter, which emphasise the principles of community engagement, cultural diversity, and contextual integrity. It also aligns with the broader agenda of the ICOMOS Triennial Scientific Plan (TSP) 2024–2027, particularly its emphasis on resilience and inclusivity in heritage management. “RESPECT”, as explored here, offers a pathway to sustainable and resilient conservation strategies that honour the past while embracing contemporary and challenges.

Key Areas of Inquiry for the Sub-Theme “RESPECT”:
  • How do we define respect in the context of living heritage, and how can this understanding shape conservation practices?
  • In what ways can respect for cultural diversity and local knowledge foster sustainable and resilient heritage management?
  • What mechanisms can ensure that respect leads to equitable representation and empowerment of marginalized communities in heritage conservation?
  • How can respect reconcile conflicting narratives and interests in the management of shared or contested heritage?
  • How does respect contribute to addressing the ethical challenges of balancing preservation, development, and modernization?
Directions for Researchers:

This sub-theme invites researchers, practitioners, and policymakers to explore respect as a transformative force in heritage conservation. Papers may address theoretical frameworks, case studies, or innovative methodologies that highlight how respect can be integrated into various aspects of heritage management, including:

  • Policy development that prioritizes ethical obligations and inclusivity.
    Researchers should consider examples of how respect can guide policy-making in heritage conservation, particularly in contexts of disaster and conflict. For instance, how can policies ensure the respectful recovery and reconstruction of heritage sites damaged by natural disasters or war, while prioritizing the needs and voices of affected communities?
  • Leveraging traditional knowledge for sustainable conservation practices.
    Researchers are encouraged to explore how respect for local and indigenous knowledge systems can inform disaster preparedness and post-conflict recovery. For example, how can traditional building techniques and community practices contribute to the resilient restoration of heritage sites after earthquakes, floods, or armed conflict?
  • Facilitating collaboration between stakeholders to ensure respectful heritage governance.
    Researchers should examine mechanisms for fostering collaboration among governments, NGOs, local communities, and international organizations in post-disaster or post-conflict scenarios. How can respect for diverse perspectives and shared ownership lead to more effective and inclusive heritage recovery efforts?
  • Developing communication strategies that amplify marginalized voices and foster mutual understanding.
    Researchers shall think of examples of the response to disaster and conflict, such as how communication strategies can be designed to ensure that the voices of marginalized or displaced communities are heard and respected in heritage recovery processes. How can storytelling, digital platforms, or community-led initiatives help rebuild cultural identity and social cohesion in the aftermath of crises?
  • Building capacities that empower communities as stewards of their cultural heritage.
    Researchers should explore how respect can underpin capacity-building initiatives that empower communities to take an active role in heritage conservation, especially in disaster-prone or conflict-affected regions. What training, resources, and support are needed to enable communities to lead recovery efforts and safeguard their heritage in the face of ongoing challenges?

By elaborating on these dimensions, the “RESPECT” sub-theme seeks to inspire meaningful discourse and action in the conservation living heritage, promoting an inclusive and respectful approach that honours the past while addressing the challenges of the present and future. Researchers are encouraged to draw on real-world examples of disaster and conflict response to illustrate how respect can guide ethical, sustainable, and resilient heritage conservation practices.

ENHANCE

Cultural heritage encompasses tangible and intangible attributes. Safeguarding both the tangible and intangible cultural heritage is essential to making the past accessible and relevant to the present and future generation. Current conservation approaches and strategies could be enhanced through innovation, technology and various interactive means.

Therefore, the sub-theme “ENHANCE” brings together conservators, professionals, researchers, academics, emerging professionals, students, practitioner, rightsholders, and other stakeholders to share their research and experiences that could fortify ways of safeguarding the tangible and intangible heritage. It provides an opportunity to explore and compare approaches and their implementation in different cultural, social, and economic contexts enhancing cultural heritage conservation practices and safeguard the living heritage in a sustainable manner. This includes ideas to improve current practices in responding to disasters and conflicts.

The sub-theme “ENHANCE” provides a platform to discuss and analyse current trends in cultural heritage conservation and offers important insights on the alignment among existing principles, approaches, methodologies, technologies, climate issues, disasters and education programs in improving the current practices in cultural heritage conservation.

Key Areas of Inquiry for the Sub-Theme “ENHANCE”:
  1. Cultural Diversity and Local Knowledge
    • How to enhance cultural heritage conservation practices in different cultural and social contexts to achieve greater inclusivity, embracing the narratives and local knowledge of minority or marginalized groups?
    • How to enhance communication and collaboration across different cultural regions?
    • Explore the realm of formal and non-formal education represented by local knowledge related to cultural heritage.
    • Case studies and experiences on enhancing local knowledge and the beauty of diversity in cultural heritage, and the significance of local knowledge in responding to disaster and conflict.
  2. New Approaches and Technologies
    • What are the new approaches and technologies in achieving effective cultural heritage conservation?
    • The evolution of science and technology creates new approaches in cultural heritage conservation. New technologies and methodologies introduce more effective methods for data collection, data analysis, and documentation in heritage conservation, leading to more effective and cost-saving practices in heritage site conservation.
    • Conserving heritage sites and buildings at risk by enhancing their original functions and introducing new compatible uses through new approaches, technologies, and adaptive reuse.
    • Case studies and experiences on new approaches and technologies in disaster risk management and conflict response to safeguard cultural heritage.
  3. Building Capacity
    • How to build capacity, facilitate collaboration, and improve communication with allied agencies and bodies in cultural heritage conservation enhancement?
    • How to enhance communication and balance development pressure while safeguarding living heritage?
    • What is the best protocol and approach to communicate with different stakeholders and cultural regions?
    • Case studies and experiences on capacity building in cultural heritage conservation and response to disaster and conflict.
  4. Intangible Cultural Heritage
    • How to safeguard intangible cultural practices that evolve over time?
    • How to enhance current formal and non-formal education systems to safeguard and promote intangible cultural heritage?
    • The role of the younger generation in intangible heritage conservation and in safeguarding traditions.
    • Case studies and experiences on intangible cultural heritage conservation and responses to disaster and conflict in safeguarding intangible cultural heritage.
  5. Research and Policy
    • Research and policy development on enhancing and improving current heritage conservation practices in facing disaster risk and conflict.
    • How to enhance current policies on cultural heritage management?
    • What are the best heritage conservation practices for climate change preparedness?
    • Case studies and experiences on research and policy-making in enhancing cultural heritage conservation, cultural heritage management, disaster risk management, conflict response, climate change preparedness, and related areas.
Key Questions to Consider:
  1. How do we define “enhance” in the context of living heritage?
  2. What are the approaches and strategies for enhancing current policies and practices in safeguarding cultural heritage?
  3. How can heritage professionals navigate efforts to enhance current cultural heritage conservation practices while safeguarding authenticity, cultural heritage management, disaster risk management, conflict response, climate change preparedness, adaptive reuse of heritage buildings, and related aspects?
  4. How do we ensure that the act of enhancement is effective without affecting the attributes of cultural heritage?

ACCEPT

Living heritage reflects the realities of communities and their changing environments. ACCEPT recognizes that cultural heritage evolves through time—including times of crisis. Conflict, natural disasters, climate change, and forced displacement reshape how communities remember, rebuild, and reaffirm identity.

This theme explores how acceptance can support dignity, recovery, reconciliation, and resilience. It highlights the importance of listening to diverse voices—including youth, Indigenous knowledge holders, women, displaced communities, and local custodians.

Participants are invited to reflect on ethics, memory, continuity, and innovation: from safeguarding intangible heritage at risk to employing digital tools for reconstruction, or developing policies that support sustainable and inclusive futures. In particular, we focus on protecting both tangible and intangible attributes that reflect heritage authenticity, as well as the tools and factors for change that align with this preservation.

Contributions from researchers, practitioners, policymakers, community representatives, and culture bearers are welcome.

Areas of Focus
  1. Plural Narratives & Cultural Diversity
    Integrating marginalized voices, traditional knowledge, and diverse cultural interpretations.
  2. Technology & Modern Interventions
    Digital tools, AI, virtual reconstruction, and modern design responses in heritage recovery and interpretation.
  3. Disaster, Conflict & Post-Crisis Recovery
    Ethical approaches to reconstruction, memory, loss, resilience planning, and community-led rebuilding.
  4. Intangible Heritage & Continuity
    Evolution of practices, youth leadership, and intergenerational transmission after disruption.
  5. Ethics, Policy & Governance
    Frameworks for acceptance, resilience, and adaptation within national and international heritage policies.
Submission Formats

Research papers, case studies, post-crisis narratives, policy reflections, and community-led heritage perspectives are welcome

PARTNERSHIP

“PARTNERSHIP” within the framework of living heritage emphasizes the collaborative efforts of communities, governments, organizations, and individuals to safeguard, celebrate, and transmit cultural traditions. It highlights the importance of mutual respect and shared responsibility in preserving intangible cultural heritage while adapting it to modern contexts. “PARTNERSHIP” promotes dialogue and knowledge exchange, bridging diverse cultural perspectives and strengthening social cohesion.

Key Areas of Inquiry for the Sub-Theme “PARTNERSHIP”:
  1. Policy
    • Effective policies are the backbone of sustainable partnerships, often required to resolve the conflict between development and conservation.
    • Research explores integrating living heritage into national development agendas and examining instances where practical activities served as examples from which policies emerged.
  2. Learning from Traditional Knowledge
    • Traditional knowledge is the foundation of many heritage practices, offering crucial insights into sustainable living and resilience.
    • “PARTNERSHIP” must prioritize learning from indigenous knowledge systems to inform modern solutions in areas like disaster management and addressing the conflict between indigenous and colonial interpretation.
    • Threats to the disappearance of traditional skills and opportunities to manage threats to preserve traditional knowledge.
    • Material heritage as a reflection of skills of intangible heritage – how and whether to learn skills from heritage objects if the skills are not present.
    • Traditions and innovations as a complement or contrast to heritage preservation.
  3. Facilitating Collaboration
    • Collaboration requires engaging multi-stakeholders across sectors, including academia, NGOs, and the private sector to harness diverse expertise.
    • Focus areas include successful multi-stakeholder collaborations, the role of public-private partnerships, and ensuring the voice of the community is a driving force:
      • The importance of the preservation initiator in the sustainability of the process, including bottom-up and top-down approaches, examples of various practices, long-term results, and the role of cooperation in these processes.
      • Public-private partnerships.
      • Private sector partnerships to agree on the goal of preserving heritage and create opportunities for its implementation, with the voice of the community as a driving force.
  4. Improving Communication
    • Clear communication is essential for building trust through transparent dialogue, bridging cultural and disciplinary divides.
    • Research investigates the role of digital technologies and storytelling to amplify heritage bearers’ voices, especially in disaster risk management and in mitigating conflicts between mass tourism and cultural tourism.
    • Engagement and participation
      • Informal processes of public participation for heritage preservation. Formal processes alone are not sufficient for deep understanding and meaningful participation.
      • The growing role of education in engagement as a sustainable approach.
  5. Building Capacities
    • Capacity building is a crucial element that empowers communities through training programs, workshops and knowledge exchange.
    • The focus is on innovative approaches, such as integrating heritage education, and how capacity building can overcome the conflict between modernization and traditional knowledge.
    • The importance of regional capacity building – in the context of traditions, to adopt existing and lost practices that have developed in a single region.
    • The importance of exchanging experiences between disciplines, for example, craftsmen and architects.
Key Questions to Consider:
  1. What specific policies can foster equitable “PARTNERSHIP” for heritage preservation?
  2. How can policymakers ensure that these policies include marginalized communities and respond to disaster and conflict?
  3. How can traditional knowledge systems be effectively documented and shared while respecting community ownership?
  4. What are the challenges in integrating traditional knowledge with modern practices?
  5. What are the best practices for fostering multi-stakeholder collaborations in heritage preservation?
  6. How can communication strategies be tailored to bridge cultural and linguistic differences?
  7. What role do emerging technologies play in enhancing communication for heritage preservation and minimising conflicts?
  8. What are the most effective methods for building community capacities in heritage management?
  9. How can “PARTNERSHIP” support long-term capacity-building initiatives?