Peace, Human Security and Dignity Week
Celebrating Diversity and Championing Equity: The Importance of Living National Treasures
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
The talk aims to dive into the vital role of Living National Treasures in celebrating cultural diversity and championing equality. By recognizing and honoring these masters of traditional arts, we can understand how their contributions enrich our cultural landscape and empower marginalized voices within the arts. This conversation will explore the significance of preserving traditional practices, fostering community engagement, and promoting inclusivity.
Recorded video available
Discussion
- Diversity and inclusion
| Transmission of simultaneous interpretation | Provided |
|---|---|
| Language of interpretation | Japanese and English |
-
Track Programme
- Time and
Date of
the event -
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2025.08.08[Fri]
11:00 ～ 13:00
(Venue Open 10:30)
-
- Venue
- Pavilion
- Saudi Arabia Pavilion
Programme details
*Subtitles: Choose “Subtitles/CC” in the “Settings” (gear icon) at the bottom right of the YouTube video.
*Subtitles may not show with multiple languages or overlapping audio.
The definition of LNT's (Living National Treasures), its recognition criteria and historical context locally & internationally.
The role of the NLT's as individuals within their communities and as national and international cultural icons.
The significance of LNT's through their production, international visibility and engagement.
Means of support and facilitation to LNT's.
Reports
【Reflection】
The Royal Institute of Traditional Arts (WRTH), under the Ministry of Culture of Saudi Arabia and chaired by HRH Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, is the Kingdom’s leading institution for preserving and revitalising traditional arts. It empowers the sector through education, research, artisan support, and international collaboration — treating traditional arts as living systems embedded in Saudi identity and celebrated both nationally and globally.
At the heart of WRTH’s initiatives is the Living National Treasures (LNT) programme, which honours master artisans as cultural custodians and mentors. Inspired by Japan’s Ningen Kokuho system but adapted to local values, the programme prioritises:
- Endangered crafts
- Mentorship and transmission of knowledge
- Community respect
- Ethical conduct
The Evaluation Framework follows UNESCO and international standards, with steps including nomination, documentation, field visits, and committee approval.
Recognised LNTs receive:
Financial support: grants, commissions, and awards
Non-financial support: documentation, training, media exposure, design collaborations, and policy consultation
Impact & Reach:
- 48 master artisans recognised across 70+ documented crafts
- 1,800+ registered artisans nationwide
- Participation across all regions, with 40% female representation
LNTs safeguard culture by keeping traditions alive, relevant, and adaptive. They protect the right to memory, representation, and cultural participation, while fostering sustainability and community resilience.
These efforts also advance the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including quality education, reduced inequalities, and sustainable communities.
Vision
Through WRTH and the LNT programme, traditional arts are presented not as static heritage, but as living cultural resources that enrich Saudi society — promoting diversity, equality, and inclusive cultural engagement.
【Post EXPO Initiatives】
WRTH aims to build on the momentum of the Expo to ensure participation becomes a catalyst for long-term cultural impact, not just a one-off showcase.
Education & Training:
- Expand workshops and training led by recognised LNTs.
- Strengthen skill transmission to younger generations and local communities.
- Preserve traditional techniques while integrating contemporary design and technology.
- Foster the sustainable development of crafts
Research & Documentation:
- Deepen research and create detailed records to inform policy and cultural exchange.
- Use digital tools, including 3D modelling, to archive and present crafts in innovative ways.
- Support international collaboration through accessible digital archives
International Cooperation:
- Enhance global recognition of Saudi crafts through Expo-built networks.
- Strengthen cultural diplomacy and benchmarking with leading international institutions.
- Expand participation of women and local communities, linking crafts to regional development and economic opportunities
Long-Term Vision:
The Expo presentation is not a temporary display but the launchpad for WRTH’s long-term cultural policy. The Institute will continue to balance respect for tradition with innovation, promoting cultural diversity and equality both in Saudi Arabia and internationally.
Cast
Speakers
Dr. Nuha Alsharif
Director of Research and Intellectual Property Department, WRTH
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Co-organiser
The Royal Institute of Traditional Arts
More Information
Peace, Human Security and Dignity Week
Celebrating Diversity and Championing Equity: The Importance of Living National Treasures
The talk aims to dive into the vital role of Living National Treasures in celebrating cultural diversity and championing equality. By recognizing and honoring these masters of traditional arts, we can understand how their contributions enrich our cultural landscape and empower marginalized voices within the arts. This conversation will explore the significance of preserving traditional practices, fostering community engagement, and promoting inclusivity.
-
2025.08.08[Fri]
11:00～13:00
(Venue Open 10:30)
- Pavilion
- * Programme times and content are subject to change. Any changes will be announced on this website and via the ticket booking system.
- * The schedule is subject to change depending on the organiser's circumstances.
OTHER PROGRAM
Peace, Human Security and Dignity Week
