ABOUT WCC AISBL

The World Crafts Council AISBL (WCC-International), an international non-profit organization, is dedicated to fostering the preservation, promotion, and advancement of global craftsmanship and traditional crafts. Our mission is to empower artisans, celebrate cultural diversity, contribute to sustainable development by supporting the rich tapestry of global craftsmanship, and preserving languishing crafts from extinction.

The main objective of the World Crafts Council AISBL is to strengthen the status of crafts in cultural and economic life. The Council aims to promote fellowship among craftspersons by offering them encouragement, help, and advice. It fosters and assists cultural exchange through conferences, international visits, research study, lectures, workshops, exhibitions, and other activities. The WCC also seeks to foster wider knowledge and recognition of the craftspeople's work with due regard to the diversified cultural and national backgrounds and tradition of its members. In carrying out these principles, the Council shall consult with governments, national and international institutions, societies, and individuals.

The World Crafts Council AISBL was founded by Ms. Aileen Osborn Vanderbilt Webb, Ms. Margaret M. Patch, and Smt Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay at the 1st World Crafts Council General Assembly in New York on June 12, 1964. In November 2012, the organization World Crafts Council AISBL was formally constituted as an International Association without lucrative purpose, at 17/02, rue de la Trouille, 7000 Mons, Belgium. According to its Bylaws, every 4 years of the term, the Presidency of the organization changes. The current headquarters for the term (2021-2025) is located in the State of Kuwait.

Since its inception, the World Crafts Council AISBL has been in the list of Non-Governmental Organizations in official partnership with UNESCO under Consultative Status for many years. From its early days, WCC was recognized as an NGO affiliated with UNESCO in category ‘A’ of non-governmental organizations.

The World Crafts Council AISBL is organized into the following five (5) Geographical Regions.

Mission

The mission of the World Crafts Council AISBL is to empower artisans and safeguard the rich heritage of global craftsmanship and traditional crafts.

We are committed to celebrating cultural diversity, fostering sustainable development, and preventing the extinction of traditional crafts.

Through collaborative efforts with artisans and stakeholders worldwide, we strive to create a vibrant and inclusive global community that values and sustains the diverse tapestry of traditional craftsmanship.

Vision

Our vision is to be a global leader in championing the recognition and preservation of traditional crafts. We envision a world where artisans are empowered to thrive, cultural diversity is celebrated and respected, and traditional crafts are integral to sustainable development.

The World Crafts Council AISBL aspires to be a catalyst for positive change, fostering a deep appreciation for the cultural and economic significance of crafts in the global community.

OUR OBJECTIVES

Preservation & Promotion

Foster the preservation, promotion, and advancement of traditional crafts globally by providing resources, support, and platforms for artisans.

Sustainable Development

Contribute to sustainable development by integrating traditional crafts into contemporary contexts, fostering economic growth while respecting cultural heritage.

Empowerment of Artisans

Empower artisans through encouragement, assistance, and guidance, enhancing their skills, livelihoods, and overall well-being.

Headquarters Rotation

Adhere to the organizational bylaws, ensuring the smooth rotation of the Presidency every four years, thereby promoting diversity and inclusivity in leadership.

Cultural
Exchange

Facilitate cultural exchange through conferences, international visits, research studies, lectures, workshops, exhibitions, and other collaborative activities that promote cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.

NGO Partnership & Recognition

Maintain and strengthen partnerships with international bodies, particularly UNESCO, to sustain the organization's consultative status and continue its impactful work as a Category 'A' NGO affiliated with UNESCO.

Recognition & Knowledge

Work towards broader recognition and knowledge of craftspeople's work, acknowledging the diverse cultural and national backgrounds and traditions of our members.

Global Geographical Representation

Enhance representation and collaboration among the five geographical regions (Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe, North America, Latin America), ensuring a balanced and inclusive approach to the organization's initiatives and activities.

Consultation & Collaboration

Actively engage with governments, national and international institutions, societies, and individuals to strengthen the status of crafts in cultural and economic life.