Unesco intangible cultural heritage

Definition

UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage refers to the practices, representations, expressions, knowledge, and skills that communities recognize as part of their cultural heritage. This concept emphasizes the importance of traditions and customs that are passed down through generations, which contribute to a community's identity and sense of belonging. The recognition of such heritage is essential for fostering cultural diversity and encouraging mutual respect among cultures worldwide.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. UNESCO established the Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2003 to protect cultural expressions that are crucial for community identity.
2. Intangible cultural heritage includes elements like oral traditions, performing arts, social practices, rituals, festivals, and traditional craftsmanship.
3. Hanji paper craft is recognized as an element of Korea's intangible cultural heritage due to its unique production methods and historical significance.
4. The inclusion of cultural elements in the UNESCO list aims to raise awareness and promote the preservation of traditional practices that may be at risk.
5. Communities are encouraged to participate in safeguarding efforts by documenting their own heritage and sharing knowledge with future generations.

Review Questions

• How does UNESCO intangible cultural heritage relate to the preservation of traditional crafts like Hanji?
  • UNESCO intangible cultural heritage plays a vital role in preserving traditional crafts like Hanji by recognizing their cultural significance and promoting awareness about these practices. The craft of Hanji is not just about making paper; it encompasses the skills, techniques, and knowledge passed down through generations. By highlighting Hanji as an element of intangible cultural heritage, UNESCO encourages efforts to maintain these traditions in the face of modern challenges.
• Evaluate the impact of recognizing Hanji as a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage on local communities and artisans.
  • Recognizing Hanji as a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage significantly impacts local communities and artisans by providing them with international recognition and support. This acknowledgment can lead to increased interest in Hanji crafts, boosting tourism and economic opportunities for artisans. Moreover, it fosters pride within communities, encouraging younger generations to learn about and engage in traditional practices, thus ensuring their survival.
• Discuss the broader implications of UNESCO's intangible cultural heritage framework on global cultural diversity and local identities.
  • The broader implications of UNESCO's intangible cultural heritage framework on global cultural diversity and local identities are profound. By safeguarding practices like Hanji paper craft, UNESCO promotes appreciation for diverse cultures while emphasizing the importance of local identities in a rapidly globalizing world. This framework encourages dialogue among different cultures, fostering respect and understanding. Ultimately, it helps combat cultural homogenization by celebrating unique traditions that enrich our shared human experience.

Related terms

Cultural Transmission: The process by which cultural knowledge, values, and practices are passed from one generation to another within a community.

Cultural Heritage: The legacy of physical artifacts and intangible attributes of a group or society inherited from past generations, encompassing both tangible and intangible elements.

Safeguarding: Efforts and measures taken to protect and preserve intangible cultural heritage from threats such as globalization, modernization, and cultural homogenization.