signifies not only recognition of their cultural value but also eligibility for support measures, including safeguarding initiatives and promotional campaigns. The legal framework also creates a set of institutional actors tasked with the implementation and monitoring of ICH-related policies. Among them, the National Centre for Traditional Activities plays an important role. Operating under the authority of the Ministry of Culture, the National Centre for Traditional Activities is mandated to administer, research, and promote intangible cultural heritage at the national level. It carries out these functions in collaboration with public and private stakeholders, and its activities range from academic research to community outreach.59 It is entrusted with a range of responsibilities aimed at the preservation, documentation, and dissemination of Albania’s intangible cultural heritage. Among its core functions is the creation and continuous updating of a series of official registers, including the National Register of Bearers of Folklore, the Register of Intangible Heritage Values, and the List of Artisans who possess and transmit traditional know-how. It is also responsible for maintaining the Register of Masterpieces of Intangible Cultural Heritage and the List of Intangible Cultural Heritage at Risk. These registers serve not only as documentation tools but also as instruments for legal recognition and strategic preservation.60 In addition, the centre is tasked with developing and maintaining an interactive map of intangible cultural heritage across the territory of the Republic of Albania. This map facilitates both public awareness and institutional coordination by visually representing the geographical distribution of intangible heritage phenomena.61 This centre is further empowered to issue official documents, including certified copies and digital reproductions of archival materials, in accordance with fees established by ministerial instruction. It also undertakes field monitoring of all intangible heritage activities conducted nationwide, ensuring compliance with preservation standards and identifying potential risks or violations. Finally, it is responsible for preparing reports or informational documents on intangible heritage matters as requested by international bodies. These documents are submitted to the National Council for Intangible Cultural Heritage, contributing to Albania’s international obligations and to the broader efforts of safeguarding cultural diversity through structured governance and legal accountability. 59 Art 33 of Law no 27/2018 OG 86/2018. 60 Art 33 (6) of Law no 27/2018 OG 86/2018. 61 Art 33 (6)(ç) of Law no 27/2018 OG 86/2018. 481 SUSTAINABLE GASTRONOMY IN ALBANIA
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