The global conceptualization of Intangible Cultural
Heritage (ICH) has undergone a profound paradigm shift, evolving from a focus
on "cultural memory" and representational preservation to an emphasis
on "sustainable development" and community livelihoods. Grounded in
the UNESCO 2003 Convention and statistical data up to December 2025, this study
conducts a comprehensive analysis of 849 ICH elements inscribed on the UNESCO
Lists. It validates these trends through spatial analysis of the Silk Road
corridor (Chang'an–Istanbul) and a deep dive into China's safeguarding model.
The research identifies a distinct "livelihood turn" in global
governance, characterized by the dominance of traditional craftsmanship (30.98%
of all elements) and a post-pandemic quality-oriented recovery. Furthermore,
the study proposes a "Law of Functional Sacralization" observed in
the transmission of the Muqam/Makam musical family along the Silk Road. China,
ranking first globally with 45 inscribed elements, exemplifies a state-led, community-centered
model integrating digital empowerment, rural revitalization (via 12,900+ ICH
workshops benefiting 1.2 million+ people), and systemic safeguarding (276
Cultural Ecological Protection Zones). These findings provide a theoretical
baseline for the future trajectory of ICH safeguarding, bridging global trends
with localized Chinese wisdom.
