Exploring the Diverse Range of 2016 UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Designations
UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that works towards promoting global peace, sustainable development, and intercultural dialogue through various programs and activities. One of the significant programs of UNESCO is the Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, which aims to safeguard the significant cultural practices, traditions, and expressions worldwide. In 2016, UNESCO added 34 elements to its Intangible Cultural Heritage list. In this article, we explore the diverse range of cultural expressions added to UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2016.
Matariki – Maori New Year (New Zealand)
Matariki is a significant celebration of Maori culture that marks the beginning of the new year in the Maori calendar. It is celebrated in New Zealand and other parts of the world by the Maori community. The Matariki festival celebrates the rising of the Pleiades star cluster, which is a symbol of the beginning of a new year for the Maori people. The festival involves various cultural activities, such as storytelling, dance, music, and feasting, that reinforce the cultural identity and traditions of the Maori people.
The Zama Music and Dance of the Lunda People (Angola, Democratic Republic of the Congo)
The Zama Music and Dance of the Lunda people is a cultural expression that is performed during various occasions, such as weddings, funerals, and other social events. The dance and music involve the use of traditional instruments such as xylophones, drums, and flutes. The Zama dance is performed with the participation of the entire community, which reinforces the sense of togetherness and belongingness.
Naha Okinawa-style Kumiodori (Japan)
The Naha Okinawa-style Kumiodori is a theatrical form of expression that originated in Okinawa, Japan. It involves the use of traditional music, dance, and costumes combined with storytelling. Kumiodori was often performed in the royal palace during the Ryukyu dynasty. It is a significant cultural expression that represents the identity and tradition of the Okinawan people.
Nangsbury Log Drumming (Vanuatu)
Nangsbury Log Drumming is a form of cultural expression that involves the use of hollowed-out logs to create different sounds resembling a percussion instrument. It is performed during various events, such as festivals, weddings, and funerals, on the Pacific island of Vanuatu. Nangsbury Log Drumming reinforces the community’s cultural identity and traditions and is considered an essential cultural expression for the people of Vanuatu.
Conclusion
The 2016 UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list consists of various cultural expressions that represent the rich cultural diversity and heritage of different communities worldwide. Each cultural expression has a unique story to tell and represents the identity and tradition of its respective community. UNESCO’s efforts towards safeguarding and promoting intangible cultural heritage play a crucial role in preserving cultural traditions and promoting intercultural dialogue and understanding.
