CIOFF®
for living traditions
CIOFF® is an Official Partner of UNESCO, accredited to the UNESCO ICH Committee.
OUR WORK
ACTIVITIES
CIOFF® activities include the World Folkloriada, educational programs, and youth engagement initiatives. These foster the continuity of cultural heritage among younger generations. CIOFF®'s efforts contribute significantly to global cultural diversity and sustainable development, closely aligning with UNESCO's goals of intercultural dialogue and peace.
MISSION
The mission of CIOFF® is to promote and support the work of folklore festivals and groups from diverse cultures at international and national levels. Through its work, it seeks to ensure the preservation of cultural traditions and folklore expressions from around the world, in particular those that form part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage.
VISION
CIOFF®'s vision is to be the leader in promoting a culture of peace, friendship and understanding worldwide, through the integration of intercultural dialogue through festivals and folklore groups. The organization aims to create a space where different cultures can meet, share and learn from each other, fostering an environment of mutual respect and cooperation.
CIOFF®
CIOFF® International, officially the International Council of Organizations of Folklore Festivals and Folk Arts, is a global non-governmental organization dedicated to preserving and promoting traditional culture and folklore.
Founded in 1970 in Confolens, France, CIOFF® has expanded its presence to over 82 countries and supports around 500 festivals worldwide. As an official partner of UNESCO, accredited by the UNESCO Committee on Intangible Cultural Heritage, CIOFF® is dedicated to safeguarding intangible cultural heritage, focusing on traditional music, dance, rituals, and crafts.
​500+ Active volunteers
within CIOFF® international
82 Countries
6 Geographical sectors
500+ Folklore groups around the world
​The average age of the participants is 28 years old
55,000+ Amateur Artists
298+ Folklore festivals worldwide
Celebrating 55 Years
of experience
Partnered with UNESCO since 1984
26+ festivals dedicated to children
PARTNERS
CONTACT
CIOFF® Address
Mairie 1 Place Henri Coursaget 16500 Confolens, France
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INTERNATIONAL COUNCIL OF ORGANIZATIONS OF FOLKLORE FESTIVALS AND FOLK ARTS