Decision of the Intergovernmental Committee: 20.COM 7.A.4

The Committee

Takes note that Panama has nominated Construction processes of the quincha house and the junta de embarre / embarra (No. 02300) for inscription on the List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding:

The construction of mud or clay houses, known as quincha houses, is a traditional building practice commonly found in rural and semi-urban areas in many parts of Panama. These homes are made using a mix of clay soil, hay and natural fibres, along with wood and plants to support the structure. This construction process – called a 'junta de embarre' – requires deep knowledge of local materials and the environment, as well as skill in mixing, shaping and assembling the components.

Considers that, from the information included in the file, the nomination satisfies the following criteria for inscription on the List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding:

U.1: The techniques for building quincha houses are passed down informally, especially during community events called mud meetings, when people of all ages come together to learn, help and celebrate. Participants are taught how to prepare and stamp the clay mixture, apply it to walls and build the structure. The practice reinforces values such as teamwork, cooperation and mutual support. It involves several roles, from master builders in charge of designing the structure, to other participants who help prepare the clay, make bricks or tiles and organize labour. Songs, traditional food and music are often part of these communal efforts, turning the construction process into a social and cultural event.

U.2: Economically undervalued and disregarded in terms of social security, this cultural practice is under threat. Many bearers in the tradition are of an advanced age, and some must rely on other jobs to support themselves. Additionally, there is a lack of interest among younger generations in learning the construction techniques due to the difficulties of sustaining their livelihoods through the element.

U.4: The nomination process involved local leaders, universities, academics, cultural managers, bearers and communities. The file provides sufficient information about community consent. Workshops, meetings and online consultations were held to gather data, consent and support for the nomination.

U.5: The element is included in the Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Panama, which was developed between 2018 and 2024. This inventory is managed by the Department of Intangible Cultural Heritage, Ministry of Culture, and is updated every two years.

Further considers that, from the information included in the file and the information provided by the submitting State Party through the dialogue process, the nomination satisfies the following criterion for inscription on the List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding:

U.3: The safeguarding plan brings together municipal entities and communities, seeking to promote cultural, educational and social development, with the validation of technical studies, in order to ensure the protection and transmission of traditional knowledge. The proposed measures are intended to provide bearers with decent living conditions so that they can devote themselves to teaching young people interested in each stage of the construction of quincha houses. The plan is detailed in terms of the activities, responsibilities of various stakeholders, budget and timetable.

Decides to inscribe Construction processes of the quincha house and the junta de embarre / embarra on the List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding.
Encourages the submitting State Party to ensure community participation in all stages of safeguarding (initiation, activities, monitoring), and engage the communities to build these houses as not expensive and environmentally friendly, seeking to revitalize the market for this type of house, the submitting State Party is cautioned against tourist-oriented activities becoming the dominant aspect of implementing the safeguarding plan.