The intangible cultural heritage of indigenous peoples: its protection under international law

Originally, the protection of cultural heritage was focused on safeguarding tangible cultural property, both movable and immovable. However, in recent decades the evolution of the concept of heritage made it necessary to protect the customs and cultural traditions of different peoples and societies. As a consequence of this evolution, the concept of intangible cultural heritage or living heritage arose, giving rise to its international protection. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the special relationship between this intangible cultural heritage and indigenous peoples and then to examine how the intangible cultural heritage of indigenous peoples is specifically protected at the international level as a key factor of their identity.