Food in the Cultural Routes of the Council of Europe

Food in the Cultural Routes of the Council of Europe

IGCAT is honored to acknowledge the participation of our President, Dr. Diane Dodd, at the 13th Advisory Forum of the Cultural Routes of the Council of Europe in Visegrád (25 – 27 September 2024), hosted by Stefano Dominioni, Executive Secretary of the European Institute of Cultural Routes (EICR). Dr. Dodd shared insights from the European Regions of Gastronomy, focusing on the vital role of youth engagement in preserving and promoting cultural heritage.

The forum provided a valuable opportunity to reconnect with key cultural leaders, including Peter Debrine of UNESCO, and Emanuela Panke, who has made remarkable contributions to the IterVitis Route. A special thanks goes to the fellow panelists for a productive discussion, moderated by Bálint Molnár, on how to inspire youth to continue the legacy of Europe’s cultural routes.

This collaborative effort underscores the importance of cultural routes in fostering connections between the past, present, and future through the active involvement of younger generations. We look forward to continuing this important work!

About the World/European Regions of Gastronomy

World/European Regions of Gastronomy, guided by IGCAT, are working together to strengthen food security through the celebration of distinctive food cultures; create employment by stimulating creativity and gastronomic innovation; nourish children and adults through culinary and cultural education; driving environmental sustainability in tourism, hospitality and agricultural sectors; supporting balance and sustainable tourism practices; highlighting and supporting expertise from within rural and urban communities, creating connections and sharing good practices; and contributing to community health and well-being.

About IGCAT

IGCAT aims to empower local communities by raising awareness of the importance of protecting and promoting distinct regional food, culture, arts and natural assets as part of sustainable and balanced tourism and development strategies. This is essential to safeguarding our planet, health, wellness and local economies.

IGCAT is a non-profit institute established in 2012, working with regional stakeholder consortiums in the fields of gastronomy, culture, arts and tourism. It counts on the expertise of a worldwide network of experts and works in partnership with specialised intergovernmental organisations.

IGCAT founded the World/European Region of Gastronomy Award and is the official secretariat for the World/European Regions of Gastronomy Platforms. Furthermore, the Institute has developed the European Young Chef Award, the World Food Gift Challenge, the Top Websites for Foodie Travelers Award and the international Food Film Menu.

26 September 2024