Since Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were adopted in the 70th General Assembly of the United Nations in 2015, contribution of intangible cultural heritage (ICH) to sustainable development has been highlighted for further research. With regard to the 17 goals of SDGs, UNESCO also emphasises on the contribution of culture to sustainable development and states that ICH is expected to contribute to goals 2 (zero hunger), 4 (quality education), 5 (gender equality), 11 (sustainable cities and communities), and 17 (partnerships for the goals). SDGs particularly place a great emphasis that each goal is interconnected.

To enhance research on ICH safeguarding, from FY 2018, IRCI will implement projects focusing on ICH’s contribution to SDG 4 and SDG 11 since ICH has a significant impact on promoting quality education and sustainable communities.