Overview
Decision 13.10.B.18 was formally adopted, recognizing reggae music of Jamaica as part of the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list. Jamaica expressed gratitude for international support and highlighted initiatives to promote and preserve reggae music.
Adoption of Decision 13.10.B.18
- Decision 13.10.B.18 was officially adopted concerning the inscription of reggae music.
- The adoption followed acknowledgment of several countries' support for the decision.
Jamaica’s Statement and Acknowledgments
- Jamaica thanked state parties, notably Cuba and Palestine, for supporting reggae music's inscription.
- Emphasized reggae as integral to Jamaica’s identity and celebrated its global influence.
- Jamaica thanked UNESCO for the inscription and reiterated reggae’s international significance.
Promotion and Academic Involvement
- Jamaica highlighted ongoing support for academic conferences: the Jamaica Music Conference and the 6th Biennial Global Reggae Conference.
- Noted worldwide reggae festivals, such as the Rotterdam Music Festival in Spain, with significant annual attendance.
Preservation and Documentation Efforts
- Ongoing digitization and bi-monthly updates of the national inventory by the African Caribbean Institute of Jamaica.
- The Jamaica Memory Bank project continues to archive reggae's cultural heritage.
- Community-based inventories in Waterhouse and Trenchtown are being integrated into UNESCO’s project for sustainable cities.
Recognition of Global Impact
- Jamaica affirmed reggae’s growing worldwide community and cultural resonance.
- The speech concluded by inviting all delegates to join in singing Bob Marley’s “One Love,” symbolizing unity.
Action Items
- After Jamaica’s music – Chairperson: Suspend the sitting for 15 minutes (immediately following the music and speech).