UNESCO examines proposals for intangible cultural heritage preservation list
Thursday, 27 November 2014 10:22
-
- {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
The United Nat i o n s Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, UNESCO, began on Wednesday (26) to examine a list of over 40 cultural practices from around the world that have been proposed as additions to its intangible cultural heritage preservation list.
Among the cultural practices to be considered is the traditional Japanese craft of making paper by hand, ‘Washi’.
“Washi is one of the most traditional hand-made arts and crafts in Japan. However in Japan these days, Western paper has become the norm and demand for Washi is falling continuously. By getting on this list, the tradition of Washi will be carried on to future generations, that is what is important,” one member of the Japanese delegation Shigeki Miyata.
Other entries include elements of Brazil’s martial art Capoeira, specifically the “Roda”, a circle in the middle of which two combatants display their skills to the sound of traditional music
Burundi has also entered a bid for a ritual dance of the royal drum.
The nominations are examined in alphabetical order based on the bidding country’s name, and each is put to a vote.
Better known for its work protecting world monuments and natural wonders, UNESCO started the list in 2003 to preserve art forms and other traditions in the face of globalisation.
The aim is to recognise elements of living heritage, such as language, in a bid to protect cultural diversity and foster a sense of community.
To be formally recognised on the list, traditions must be deemed to spread knowledge of intangible cultural heritage, and protective measures must be taken to promote them.
