Ao Dai Pursues UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Status

The Vietnamese government is advancing efforts to have the traditional Ao Dai recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. During a working session with the Viet Nam Ao Dai Heritage Club on July 26, 2024, Deputy Prime Minister Pham emphasized the significance of this initiative. Deputy Prime Minister Pham stated that the Ao Dai serves as a symbol of Vietnamese women, playing a crucial role in promoting Vietnam's cultural values to the international community and bringing the nation's image closer to people worldwide. She highlighted that the Ao Dai is more than just a traditional costume; it embodies Vietnam's cultural identity, encompassing the beauty, spirit, virtues, and traditions of Vietnamese women across generations, and stands as a source of pride for the Vietnamese people. Preparing the nomination dossier for UNESCO recognition is a task of great significance, which will not only reaffirm the Ao Dai's position in the nation's cultural life but also elevate the value of Vietnam's cultural heritage on the international stage, the Deputy Prime Minister noted. She urged the Viet Nam Ao Dai Heritage Club to work closely with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and relevant agencies to expedite the completion of the nomination dossier. The government affirmed its commitment to supporting these efforts in the coming period. Under Vietnam's one-party system, the protection and promotion of cultural heritage are often viewed as part of strategies to strengthen national identity and enhance international soft power. The UNESCO recognition of the Ao Dai could become a symbolic example of cultural promotion policies pursued in parallel with economic growth. This initiative also appears to align with Vietnam's strategy to enhance its international presence by showcasing its unique culture, particularly in its relations with China in recent years.