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Paper short abstract:

The research analyses the status of intangible heritage and problems of its practicing in Lithuania: the tensions in cooperation of heritage communities with scientists and state institutions (their theoretical presumptions and support politics) and the importance of local factors in management.

Paper long abstract:

The research is based on the authors' experience in expert work in The Commision of Lithuanian Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) Inventory, as well as a survey of respondents - leaders of traditions, collected using the questionnaire drawn up in the course of the Lithuanian Culture Council sponsored study on the possibilities of actualization of ICH (2022).

The analysis reveals that the cooperation of ICH communities with ethnologists and prominent specialists is highly desirable - otherwise, the heritage tradition may be reduced to the cultivation of more social, than cultural or artistic values. The economic factor is very important for the viability of traditional crafts and folk art, and the support of socio-cultural environment is more essential for the phenomena of customs.

The presentation analyses the variety of management enforcing the practicing of traditions in protected areas (parks) and resorts heavily visited by tourists; a prominent traditions in the provinces, highly valued by professionals and sustainable by the enthusiasm of local communities; and nationally spread traditions supported (or poorly supported) by the state or municipalities.

Best and worst practices of interaction between community leaders, managers, ethnologists, municipalities and state in safeguarding ICH traditions are discussed. The dilemma of the main responsible subject occurs quite often.

The most criticized methodological – theoretical aspect of state support is the requirement of innovation and integration into other areas of culture for the practitioners of authentic traditions.