The forum welcomed more than 60 representatives from 30 UNESCO Creative Cities across 15 countries. Through presentations and city case studies, participants shared diverse strategies for bridging heritage with contemporary design, building ecosystems that empower artisans, support creative entrepreneurship, and strengthen cultural identity, all while advancing the Sustainable Development Goals. The forum reaffirmed the value of the Creative Cities Network as a unique platform for peer-to-peer learning and international cooperation. Participants also stressed that the relationship between design and traditional crafts is mutually enriching: while design can open new markets and opportunities for artisans, crafts serve as a wellspring of inspiration for contemporary design. Drawing on deep local knowledge, materials, and cultural identity, traditional crafts help designers create distinctive, culturally grounded products that stand apart from the homogenization often seen in global markets.
The event not only celebrated 15 years of Shanghai’s designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Design but also provided strategic direction for the future of the “ICH as Fashion” initiative. Building on the outcomes of this gathering, the initiative will continue to expand its reach through a series of upcoming activities. These include capacity-building workshops for ICH bearers and young designers, collaborative projects and showcases that promote ethical and sustainable design, and international seminars and symposiums to advance policy dialogue, education, and research.
By fostering long-term collaboration among ICH communities, designers, local governments, and cultural institutions, UNESCO remains committed to ensuring that intangible cultural heritage continues to inspire creative innovation while supporting economic and social well-being. The forum demonstrated that when heritage and design come together, they not only safeguard traditions but also create meaningful pathways toward a more inclusive, resilient, and creative future.
