In a national consultation involving nearly 59,000 participants, Denmark has identified the cultural practices and institutions it values most as part of its intangible cultural heritage. The initiative, coordinated by the Ministry of Culture (Kulturministeriet), will help determine which Danish traditions will be nominated for inclusion on UNESCO’s list of intangible cultural heritage.
Citizens vote for cultural identity
The selection process included a public vote that invited residents to express what they perceive as essential to Danish culture. Among the leading contenders are universities, hot dog stands (pølsevogne), handball, and the widespread network of voluntary associations and trust-based communities. According to Culture Minister Jakob Engel-Schmidt, the aim is to celebrate “the elixir of life that creates joy, community, and cohesion in our country”.
Intangible heritage and social cohesion
Unlike monuments or historical sites, intangible cultural heritage includes practices, knowledge, and traditions that form the social fabric of a country. Denmark’s candidates reflect both everyday practices and core values: communal trust, accessible education, and shared leisure activities.
For example, the pølsevogn, once a staple of Danish street food, is seen as more than a fast-food stand—it represents social equality and public space. Similarly, the popularity of handball is tied to community identity and intergenerational bonding.
Towards UNESCO recognition
The selected entries will be considered for submission to UNESCO in the coming years. Inclusion in the international list would formally recognise these traditions as crucial elements of world cultural heritage, safeguarding them for future generations.
This bottom-up approach also marks a democratic shift in cultural policymaking, giving ordinary citizens a direct voice in defining what is worth preserving. The final list is expected to be announced later this year.
