Roles of Organisations like UNESCO in Protecting Global Heritage Sites and Traditions
UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) plays a crucial role in the preservation and promotion of global cultural heritage through its World Heritage programme and other initiatives.
1. Cultural Relativism in Art
- Recognises that art is interpreted differently across cultures and contexts.
- Encourages understanding of diverse artistic expressions without ethnocentric bias.
- Promotes dialogue among cultures to appreciate varied artistic values and traditions.
2. Art as a Cultural Expression
- Acts as a medium for communities to express their identity, history, and values.
- Documents cultural narratives that are passed down through generations.
- Plays a key role in fostering cultural pride and social cohesion.
3. Globalisation and Cultural Exchange
- Facilitates interactions between different cultures which can lead to both appreciation and appropriation.
- Fosters a platform for artists to share their work globally, enhancing cross-cultural exchanges.
- Addresses the challenges of cultural homogenisation and loss of identity in the globalised world.
4. Traditional vs. Contemporary Practices
- Highlights the tension between preserving traditional art forms and embracing contemporary styles.
- Encourages the integration of traditional techniques in modern art, ensuring cultural continuity.
- Supports initiatives that value both traditional craftsmanship and modern innovation.
5. Art, Identity, and Resistance
- Utilises art as a powerful tool for social commentary and challenging oppression.
- Enables marginalised communities to assert their identity and cultural narratives through various art forms.
- Inspires movements that use art to address political and social issues, asserting cultural resilience.
6. World Heritage and UNESCO
- Designates heritage sites based on their outstanding universal value to humanity, such as the Great Wall of China (1987) and the Pyramids of Egypt (1979).
- Provides technical and financial assistance to countries for the protection of their cultural heritage.
- Raises global awareness and encourages collaboration to safeguard heritage at risk from urbanisation, conflict, and climate change.
