Italian craftsmanship proposed for UNESCO listing: Costantini’s appeal

Italian craftsmanship proposed for UNESCO listing: Costantini’s appeal

During the Made in Italy Day, CNA national president Dario Costantini reiterated the aim to nominate Italian craftsmanship for UNESCO recognition. The announcement accompanied the launch of the 2026 campaign “Augmented Craftsmanship,” promoted by CNA together with Confartigianato, Casartigiani and Fondazione Symbola, and supported by the Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy.

Why aim for UNESCO recognition

Costantini argues that the artisan sector blends tradition, creativity and technological innovation, strengthening the identity of Made in Italy. UNESCO listing could deliver tangible benefits:

• Enhancement of local skills and traditional techniques;
• Safeguarding of intergenerational knowledge and practices;
• Boost to qualified cultural tourism and new economic opportunities;
• Strengthening of networks among businesses, universities and research centers.

Challenges to address

Costantini highlighted several practical issues that need attention to make the nomination credible and sustainable:

• Stronger integration between artisan businesses, universities and research centers;
• Tools to facilitate business succession and generational renewal;
• Energy policies and support measures for small high-energy-use workshops.

Practical steps to support a nomination

Territories or artisan practices considering a UNESCO nomination should consider the following actions:

• Document the tradition with inventories, testimonies and photographic/technical archives;
• Prepare a nomination dossier highlighting cultural significance and, if applicable, outstanding universal value;
• Develop a shared management plan involving institutions, businesses and local communities;
• Engage research institutions and universities for supporting studies and sustainable innovation;
• Promote awareness through events, workshops and visitor-oriented routes.

Implications for visitors and tourism operators

UNESCO recognition can expand cultural tourism offerings: guided visits to workshops, hands-on courses, themed markets and educational trails focused on craftsmanship. Buying certified artisan products and joining related events directly supports the preservation and transmission of traditional skills.

Conclusion: the “Augmented Craftsmanship” campaign seeks to combine intangible heritage protection, innovation and public policies. For local actors, a UNESCO nomination is a concrete opportunity to promote and safeguard the excellence of Italian craft.