UNESCO Safeguards Endangered Traditional Arts and Crafts

UNESCO Expands Protection for Endangered Cultural Traditions

UNESCO has strengthened global efforts to preserve cultural diversity by adding several endangered traditional arts and crafts to its List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding . The latest inscriptions highlight cultural practices that face the risk of extinction due to modernisation, declining community participation, and socio-economic pressures. By recognising these traditions, UNESCO aims to mobilise international attention, funding, and community-driven action to ensure their survival.

Newly Inscribed Cultural Practices

Among the key additions is Boreendo , an ancient musical instrument from Pakistan that represents the region’s oral and musical traditions. Also inscribed is the Mwazindika spiritual dance of Kenya, a ritual performance deeply connected to community identity and belief systems. From Vietnam, the Dong Ho folk woodblock printing tradition has been recognised for its unique artistic techniques and role in storytelling through visual art. Each inscription reflects not only artistic excellence but also social cohesion and intergenerational knowledge transfer.

Historic UNESCO Session at the Red Fort

The inscriptions were finalised during a UNESCO session held at the Red Fort , marking the first time India has hosted a meeting of this kind. The historic venue symbolised the global importance of heritage preservation and highlighted India’s active role in international cultural governance. Hosting the session also reinforced India’s own commitment to safeguarding diverse living traditions.

Global Review and Community Focus

UNESCO is currently reviewing over 67 nominations from nearly 80 countries , covering music, dance, rituals, crafts, and traditional knowledge. The evaluation process places strong emphasis on community involvement, feasibility of safeguarding measures, and urgency of protection needs.

Exam Oriented Facts

• UNESCO maintains a List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding .

• The Red Fort hosted a UNESCO heritage session for the first time.

• Boreendo is a traditional musical instrument from Pakistan.

• Dong Ho woodblock printing is a folk art tradition from Vietnam.