Brazilian academic and anthropologist Luciana Gonçalves de Carvalho has been elected to the Evaluation Body of the UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage for a four-year term. The election took place during the 19th session of the Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, held in Asunción, Paraguay.
Professor Gonçalves de Carvalho, a PhD in Anthropology and a professor at the Federal University of Western Pará (UFOPA), brings extensive experience in both academic research and policy development for the protection of intangible cultural heritage. Her work has been central in shaping national and multilateral efforts to safeguard cultural practices, traditions, and expressions that are vital to communities across the globe.
The Evaluation Body to which she has been elected plays a key role in assessing the safeguarding efforts of countries under the UNESCO Convention, which aims to protect and promote intangible cultural heritage such as traditions, rituals, performances, and languages. Her election highlights Brazil’s commitment to the preservation of these vital cultural expressions and its efforts to integrate sustainable development, human rights, and climate action into these safeguarding practices.
Luciana Gonçalves de Carvalho’s experience includes participation in various UNESCO expert groups, including those focused on the relationship between intangible heritage and climate action and the List of Good Practices under the Convention. Her involvement in these areas underscores her dedication to promoting a balanced and inclusive approach to cultural heritage, ensuring that it is both preserved and enhanced in ways that contribute to sustainable development goals.
A Strong Voice for Brazil on the Global Stage
Gonçalves de Carvalho’s election is seen as a significant milestone for Brazil, reflecting the country’s proactive role in the international dialogue on intangible cultural heritage. As one of the world’s most culturally diverse nations, Brazil has long been committed to safeguarding its own rich intangible heritage while also championing these efforts globally.
During her tenure, the professor is expected to advocate for the inclusion of traditional knowledge and cultural practices that emphasize sustainability, resilience, and human rights. This approach aligns with Brazil’s broader national priorities, including promoting environmental sustainability and ensuring that the voices of marginalized communities are heard and respected in global heritage frameworks.
Her election also signals Brazil’s growing influence within UNESCO’s cultural initiatives, as the country continues to strengthen its position as a leader in the protection of global cultural heritage, particularly in the context of climate change and socio-economic challenges.
Looking Ahead
In her new role, Luciana Gonçalves de Carvalho will work alongside other experts to evaluate proposals for safeguarding intangible cultural heritage from across the world. She is expected to bring a unique perspective that bridges traditional cultural practices with the modern challenges posed by climate change, globalization, and technological development.
Her election is a testament to the ongoing importance of cultural preservation and highlights the continued relevance of UNESCO’s efforts to promote the safeguarding of intangible heritage in an increasingly interconnected world.
For more information on the 19th Session of the Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage and the UNESCO Convention, visit the official UNESCO website.