Tehran: The Hormozgan Cultural Heritage Custodians Association has been granted consultative status with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) for 2026, marking a significant international milestone for Iran's cultural heritage sector. Hormozgan's Director General of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts stated that the recognition represents a strategic step in the province's cultural diplomacy and will help introduce Hormozgan's rich civilization, traditions, and handicrafts to a wider global audience.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, the International Advisory Committee (IAC) is the peak body responsible for advising UNESCO on the planning and implementation of the Programme. Based on UNESCO statistics, only 317 non-governmental organizations worldwide hold consultative status. The Hormozgan association has become the fourth Iranian NGO, following organizations from Tehran, Yazd, and Isfahan, to join this distinguished network.

The official mentioned that UNESCO's evaluation process was highly rigorous and required months of expert work to prepare documentation meeting international standards. Following voting sessions held on June 17 and 18, the final results were officially published on UNESCO's website this week. The new status recognizes the association's institutional capacity to contribute to policymaking on safeguarding intangible cultural heritage.

It also enables the organization to participate in international heritage discussions, promote Hormozgan's cultural traditions and handicrafts, and contribute to global efforts aimed at preserving humanity's shared cultural heritage. Hormozgan Province is home to over 300 historical and cultural sites, making it one of Iran's major heritage destinations.