This illuminating book offers an authoritative analysis of the legal issues relating to safeguarding intangible cultural heritage. Taking a critical approach, it provides a unique insight into the impact of international and national law on the present and future safeguarding processes of intangible cultural heritage. Expert contributors draw on the results of an international study conducted in 26 countries to illustrate how domestic laws comprehend the notion of intangible cultural heritage. The book explores the relationship that these states maintain with the safeguarding of intangible cultural heritage, and highlights challenging concepts, including the principle of participation and community and the nature of safeguarding. Through the analysis and synthesis of empirical data, the book also identifies new developments in cultural heritage law. This book will be an essential resource for scholars and students of cultural heritage law, as well as anthropology, ethnology, and cultural studies. Its panorama of national experiences will also be beneficial for persons involved in the safeguarding of intangible cultural heritage, including policy makers and NGOs.