A Vision for CIAV. Addressing the challenges facing the ICOMOS International Scientific Committee on Vernacular Architecture

Abstract

While the debate continues on what exactly is vernacular architecture, what are its values and significance, how could it be conserved and revitalized, Some pressing questions must be addressed without delay. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), climate change, the pandemic, armed conflicts, displacements and other disasters such as fires, floods and earthquackes are some of the main challenges that have been recently escalating and must be addressed collectively by all humanity without any delay. These challenges that do impact the cultural heritage greatly. On the other hand, cultural heritage should play a key role in addressing these challenges. ICOMOS, as the leading international organization in the field has an important role to play. The ICOMOS International Scientific Committee on Vernacular Architecture (CIAV) endeavours to fulfil its duty in addressing these pressing issues and their impact on the protection, conservation and management of the built vernacular heritage. The specificity of vernacular architecture raises particular challenges as well as offers opportunities that are particular to CIAV. This paper proposes a vision for CIAV that aims to include its new duties, which were not as urgent in the initial vision at the time of its foundation and during the drafting of the Charter on the Built Vernacular Heritage, 1999 in Mexico. The ideas expressed in the paper aim to raise discussions not only among the members of CIAV and ICOMOS but also for all those who are interested in the built vernacular heritage. As a result, CIAV may need to revisit its charter or issue a declaration to include the proposed new vision in its activities and discourse through its newsletter, conferences, publicaitons, webinars and other events.