Community-engaged digital safeguarding of intangible cultural heritage: a review of methods and challenges

npj Heritage Science 2026 Open access

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Authors: Yue-Cheng Tan, Ling-Hui Yang, Bin Wang
DOI: 10.1038/s40494-026-02458-y
Cited by: 7
References: 57

Abstract

This review, guided by the Technology-Community Synergy Framework (TCSF), synthesizes 79 studies (2010–2025) on digital intangible cultural heritage (ICH) safeguarding. Effective preservation requires synergizing digital methods with community participation to enhance ICH’s liveness; technology-focused but community-shallow projects risk digital fossilization. Key challenges like the digital divide are examined. The TCSF operationalizes UNESCO’s people-centered ethos for equitable, sustainable ICH safeguarding in the digital age.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Cultural Heritage Management and Preservation Conservation Techniques and Studies Archaeological Research and Protection

Publication details

Journal / source
npj Heritage Science
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Volume
14
Issue
1
Publication date
26 March 2026
Language
EN