Tehran Unites Experts to Empower Nomadic Women with Essential Entrepreneurial Skills
TEHRAN – Iran recently hosted an important expert meeting aimed at enhancing entrepreneurial skills among female bearers of intangible cultural heritage (ICH) from nomadic communities. This initiative is crucial for promoting sustainable development and empowering women in these unique cultural settings.
The “Expert Meeting on Developing Entrepreneurial Skills among Female ICH Bearers from Nomadic Communities for Improved and Sustainable Livelihood” took place in Tehran on Wednesday. The event gathered various participants to discuss the significant role nomadic women play in cultural transmission, livelihoods, and sustainable development.
Ali Darabi, the deputy minister of cultural heritage and chair of the Tehran regional center for safeguarding intangible cultural heritage, emphasized that nomadic women are “not only the guardians of language, art, and ritual, but also key actors in the social and economic sustainability of nomadic communities.” He outlined Iran’s vision to establish an international network aimed at supporting experience-sharing and promoting cross-border cooperation among women ICH bearers.
Darabi further elaborated on a recently approved project focusing on empowering nomadic women in West and Central Asia. The project’s objectives include:
- Strengthening local communities
- Gathering and transmitting traditional knowledge
- Reconnecting policy-making with cultural heritage
Fumiko Ohinata, Secretary of the UNESCO 2003 Convention, sent a message to the meeting, highlighting that nomadic and pastoralist heritage constitutes a “dynamic part of the cultural fabric of West and Central Asia.” She pointed out the importance of traditional skills, crafts, and livestock-related knowledge in tackling sustainable development challenges, particularly regarding livelihoods and food security.
Ohinata also announced that the United Nations has designated 2026 as the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists. She noted that safeguarding nomadic heritage requires adapting transmission methods to contemporary life while avoiding the pitfalls of over-commercialization. Moreover, she stated that women play a critical role in sustaining livelihoods and passing knowledge and practices onto younger generations.
Maryam Jalali, the deputy minister for handicrafts, spoke on the importance of sustainable development, stating it is rooted in “well-being, satisfaction, and meaning.” She explained that nomadic communities embody these principles through their adaptation to nature and defined social roles. Jalali highlighted that children in nomadic families acquire vital skills from an early age, with women serving as “teachers of resilience and craft.” Their contributions to economic activities include weaving, dairy production, and traditional food preparation.
Atousa Momeni, head of the regional center, noted that studies on nomadism provide insights into “the lived knowledge of people who practiced sustainability long before the term existed.” She mentioned that nomadic traditions offer valuable perspectives on climate resilience, asserting that “indigenous knowledge offers answers to today’s environmental challenges.”
Seyyed Zia Hashemi, deputy for cultural and social affairs in the vice-president’s office, commented on the strong cultural and emotional ties within nomadic communities. He remarked that their deep connection with nature renders their heritage relevant for contemporary policy. “Nomadic culture can be a guide for sustainable living,” he declared.
Throughout the meeting, participants engaged in discussions that focused on:
- Strengthening entrepreneurial skills
- Improving livelihood opportunities
- Enhancing the visibility of women who safeguard intangible cultural heritage across nomadic communities in West and Central Asia
This expert meeting marks a significant step toward empowering nomadic women and promoting sustainable development within their communities. By fostering entrepreneurship and recognizing the value of intangible cultural heritage, Iran is paving the way for a brighter future for these women and their families.
