History of International Institute for the Study of Nomadic Civilizations
Beyond Nomadic Borders
The International Institute for the Study of Nomadic Civilizations (IISNC) is an intergovernmental research institute based in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, dedicated to the study of nomadic cultures and societies.
Established on 16 September 1998 under the auspices of UNESCO, the Institute is one of UNESCO’s Category 2 Centres, created through the joint initiative of Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, and Turkey. Its establishment marked the result of long-term cooperation between Mongolian scholars and UNESCO in exploring Central Asian civilizations.
IISNC promotes research, dialogue, and international cooperation to preserve traditional knowledge, sustainable land-use practices, and the cultural heritage of nomadic peoples. It serves as a platform connecting scholars, policymakers, and cultural practitioners to foster understanding between nomadic and settled civilizations and to contribute to global discussions on mobility, identity, and sustainable development.
Establishment date
16 September 1998
Headquarters Location
Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Members
Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, and Turkey
01
1973
International Symposium on the topic “The Role of Nomadic Peoples in the Culture and Civilization of Central Asia” .
The International Symposium “The Role of Nomadic Peoples in the Culture and Civilization of Central Asia” was held in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, in August 1973. The symposium, organized by the Mongolian National Commission for UNESCO, was a significant event that challenged previous negative perceptions of nomadic cultures and aimed to highlight their contributions to global civilization.
02
1988
“Silk Road – Road of Dialogue” international project
In 1988, a project initiated to recognize the Silk Road as a historic network for intercultural dialogue and exchange, not just trade. The initiative aimed to highlight the cultural and intellectual connections between East and West and promote a greater understanding of the shared heritage fostered along the ancient routes.
03
1992
International conference on “Central Asian Nomads and the Silk Road”
In 1992, a significant international conference titled “Nomads of Central Asia and the Silk Roads” was held in Mongolia, organized by UNESCO as part of its broader Silk Roads Project. This event, which included a UNESCO expedition, focused on the historical role of nomadic peoples, their cultural heritage, and the potential of modern developments like tourism and handicrafts. The conference and related projects led to a recommendation for the creation of the International Institute for the Study of Nomadic Civilizations.
04
1993
UNESCO General Assembly Resolution 27C/3.12
The UNESCO General Conference Resolution 27C/3.12, adopted at its 27th session in 1993, concerned the Co-Action Programme (COP) and its future direction. This resolution reaffirms UNESCO’s commitment to the research, preservation, and promotion of nomadic and mobile cultures worldwide. It calls on Member States and international organisations to strengthen cooperation in studies of nomadic societies, their heritage, and sustainable land‑use practices, recognising the enduring contribution of nomadic civilisations to human development and cultural diversity.
05
1998
Multilateral Agreement “On the Establishment of the Forum” between the Governments of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Indonesia, Mongolia and Turkey
The organization was founded to preserve the cultural heritage of nomadic peoples and help modernize nomadic life. The establishment agreement was signed in Mongolia on September 16, 1998.
Category 2 centres under the auspices of UNESCO
A UNESCO Category 2 Centre is an institution that works in official partnership with UNESCO to support its programmes through research, training, and international cooperation. These centres are created and funded by Member States but operate under a formal agreement with UNESCO. They serve as hubs of expertise that help advance UNESCO’s mission in areas such as culture, education, science, and social development. IISNC is recognized as a Category 2 Centre because of its specialized focus on nomadic civilizations and its contribution to intercultural dialogue and cultural research. By conducting studies, organizing conferences, and promoting knowledge on nomadic societies, IISNC supports UNESCO’s goals and strengthens global understanding of cultural diversity.
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