The Committee
- Takes note that Uzbekistan has nominated Art of crafting and playing Kobyz (No. 02329) for inscription on the List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding:
The kobyz, made and played in the Republic of Karakalpakstan, an autonomous region of Uzbekistan, is a traditional string instrument with an arc shape and two strings made from horsehair. The body is covered with leather and includes detailed decorations made from local wood such as mulberry or apricot tree. A special bow, also made from horsehair, is used to play the instrument. The kobyz is designed to be portable, making it easy to carry during long travels, reflecting its ties to a nomadic lifestyle. It is played by storytellers known as ‘zhyrau’, primarily men, who perform epic tales using a particular style of throat singing.
- 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 kobyz is used in rituals, weddings, festivals and community gatherings. It is transmitted informally and formally. At home, children often learn from their parents. In the master-apprentice tradition, students learn directly from skilled instrument makers and performers, often in small groups or through one-on-one lessons. These methods are sometimes supported by cultural events, workshops and recordings. The kobyz contributes to cohesion, unity and shared heritage among the communities concerned.
U.2: The element is under threat from various internal and external factors, including declining interest, a reduction in the transfer of knowledge and skills, limited availability of formal training programmes, urbanization, and habitat degradation. Limited resources, funding and infrastructure for the promotion and preservation of the element also increases its vulnerability.
U.3: The safeguarding plan emphasizes: (a) documenting the element; (b) developing training programmes; (c) raising awareness among local communities; (d) collaborating with governmental and non-governmental bodies; and (e) strengthening the participation of local communities. The State Party has demonstrated clear commitment to the safeguarding of the element, with clear objectives and feasible activities.
U.4: With government support, a wide range of activities was developed throughout the nomination process, involving the broad participation of the bearers and the communities to which they belong.
U.5: The element was included in 2021 in the National and Local List of the Republic of Karakalpakstan. The list is managed by the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Karakalpakstan, Uzbekistan, and is updated every two years.
- Decides to inscribe Art of crafting and playing Kobyz on the List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding;
- Encourages the submitting State Party to ensure that by application of safeguarding measures, the element will be adapted or integrated into the changed, contemporary socio-cultural and economic reality for the revitalization of the art of crafting and playing kobyz, placing special focus on the educational measures to urgently safeguard the techniques of play of this instrument and ensure the transmission from one generation to the next.