UNESCO’s Vietnam office recently honoured a group of people who keep the Mother Goddess worship tradition alive in Ninh Binh. The ceremony offers a clear example of how community‑driven efforts can protect intangible cultural heritage.

Held on 17 October, the ceremony marked the 10th anniversary of the tradition’s inscription on UNESCO’s List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. It coincided with International Day of Intangible Cultural Heritage, underscoring its global relevance.

The UNESCO office presented certificates of commendation to 41 heritage practitioners, spirit mediums and association members from Ninh Binh. They were recognised for their sustained, practical contributions to maintaining traditional standards, passing knowledge to younger generations, and guiding their communities toward respectful, economical observance of the faith.

Jonathan Wallace Baker, UNESCO Representative to Vietnam, said that safeguarding intangible cultural heritage is not simply about preserving the past. He stressed that the core responsibility is to keep the values meaningful in contemporary life and to pass them on intact to future generations.

As UNESCO officials noted, international recognition only has real value when the heritage remains alive within its community, sustained by the dedication and knowledge of those who practise it. The ceremony therefore shows that preserving intangible culture relies on active community guardians, not just on awards.