Hue is preparing a scientific dossier on Ca Hue traditional music for a proposed nomination to UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Bao Van Hoa reported on October 16 that deputy city chairman Tran Huu Thuy Giang had signed Plan 571/KH-UBND.
The culture, sports and tourism department must complete the work plan and cost estimate for city approval in the fourth quarter of 2026. Preparation is expected to run from that quarter through 2027, with an estimated budget of nearly VND9.9 billion.
Research and community participation
Hue plans to establish coordinating bodies and select an experienced consultant. Information must be scientific, objective, accurate and verifiable, in line with UNESCO's 2003 convention and relevant regulations.
Tasks include fieldwork, heritage inventories and community discussions. Researchers will collect community views and commitments and document performances through recordings, film and photography.
The work will examine Ca Hue's history, artistic values and characteristics, alongside current practice, performance spaces, artisans, performers, repertoire, instruments and associated objects.
Preparation precedes UNESCO consideration
Domestic and international workshops are planned to gather advice from researchers, specialists, artists and communities. They will also address safeguarding and transmission of traditional musical heritage.
The city will coordinate with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and other agencies to develop and submit the dossier. The plan does not mean a completed nomination has already been submitted or approved by UNESCO.
Ca Hue entered Vietnam's national intangible-cultural-heritage list in 2015. That domestic recognition is distinct from the proposed international nomination process.