The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) intangible cultural heritage elements are components of a country's cultural heritage that are equally as important as physical cultural elements, like World Heritage Sites. The elements are abstract and must be learned, encompassing traditional knowledge which includes festivals, music, performances, celebrations, handicrafts, and oral traditions. The Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, which approves new inscription requests, and a definition of "intangible cultural heritage" are both established in the Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, drafted in 2003, and taking effect in 2006.