TEHRAN - The so-called registration of Iranian cultural icons and elements by other countries has sparked sensitivities and concerns among many Iranians, particularly regarding the appropriation of their cultural treasures.

While such registrations are often seen as a form of recognition, they also raise fears of cultural ownership and exploitation.

Recently, some members of Iran’s Intangible Cultural Heritage Council emphasized that under the guidelines of the UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, no cultural element can exclusively be registered for a particular country without the possibility of being added by other eligible countries.

This clarification comes amid worries that neighboring countries might register Iranian elements as their own, ISNA reported on Friday.

Ali Hajilari, a diplomat and expert member of Iran's Intangible Cultural Heritage Council, highlighted the misunderstanding surrounding such registrations. He stressed that the convention does not entail ownership of cultural elements by any specific country. Instead, it aims to identify and safeguard intangible heritage for the benefit of all humanity.

Hajilari emphasized that the registration of cultural elements fosters peace and mutual respect among nations. For instance, while Nowruz has its roots in Iran, its UNESCO registration signifies its universal significance, promoting cultural exchange and cooperation.

“Despite Iran's significant role in the global registration of Nowruz, 12 countries are involved in its dossier, reflecting its widespread celebration. This inclusive approach enhances mutual respect and encourages international cultural dialogue.”

Hajilari clarified that while tangible and written heritage may face issues of ownership, the registration of personalities does not imply national ownership. Rather, it involves commemorating and celebrating their contributions. Therefore, it is erroneous to assume that individuals like Ibn Sina (Avicenna) could be registered in countries other than their place of origin.

Elsewhere in his remarks, the expert said that each country can register living cultural elements that are active within its borders. For instance, Azerbaijan registered "chogan" (polo), while Iran also registered it under its own name. This underscores the fluid nature of intangible heritage, which transcends national boundaries.

In the end, the expert underlined that concerns regarding UNESCO registration highlight the need for greater understanding and cooperation among nations to safeguard and celebrate the world's cultural diversity without encroaching upon each other's heritage.

Moreover, Atousa Momeni, the head of the Intangible Heritage Center of Tehran, who was in charge of managing the workshop, also commented on those concerns.

She mentioned some examples that have been registered for Iran, saying the tradition of making Badgirs (windcatchers), or Lenj boats have been previously registered for Iran.

“However, the issue of priorities is certainly raised, and for this reason, a proposal for prioritizing the global registration of intangible heritage is being formulated,” Momeni added.

Last December, the Iranian tourism minister Ezzatollah Zarghami announced that Iran ranked 5th in the world for the number of intangible cultural heritage registered by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. “6th of Azar (Dec. 6), is an unforgettable day for Iran's Intangible Cultural Heritage, when three cultural elements were inscribed [together with some other neighboring countries] on the UNESCO list during the 18th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage,” Zarghami said.

With the addition of Iftar and its socio-cultural traditions, the ancient Sadeh festival, and the intricate artistry of Tahzib in illuminated manuscripts, the count of globally registered intangible heritage items has risen to 24, elevating Iran from the sixth to the fifth position worldwide in the number of entries listed in the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list, the minister explained.

AM