The Committee

1. Takes note that Haiti has nominated The Compas of Haiti (No. 02273) for inscription on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity:

Compas is a popular music and dance genre that holds deep cultural significance for the practising communities. As strong identifying factor, it brings together people of all ages, genders and backgrounds. The music is characterized by a syncopated rhythm and accompanied by instruments such as guitars, keyboards and drums. Compas combines African, European and Indigenous influences, and often touches on themes such as love, freedom, peace and resistance. The Compas dance, a rhythmic walk, is marked by pelvic movements, alternating steps and a physical connection between the dancers. It is a means of expression that is often used in couples therapy and shared among family members and friends.

2. Considers that, from the information included in the file, the nomination satisfies the following criteria for inscription on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity:

R.1:   Deeply rooted in the identity of its bearers, Compas is an important part of festive and ritual events and a key element of celebrations and personal milestones for individuals, families and communities. The related knowledge and skills are passed down through the generations, with families, communities, schools and artists transmitting the music and dance through informal means, such as workshops and festivals. Dancers, choreographers, orchestras, producers and other professionals also play an essential role in the creation and transmission of the element. Compas is a symbol of resilience and a celebration of cultural heritage, social cohesion and shared identity.

R.2:   The submitting State Party consistently demonstrates the element’s contribution to various aspects of sustainable development. As a vehicle for social cohesion, it encourages encounters between individuals and gender equality. It is also a tool of resistance, supporting just causes and raising awareness about Haiti’s history and cultural heritage. In the economic dimension, the production and distribution of the element generate jobs and help create positive alternatives to involvement in harmful activities, mainly for young people. Furthermore, Compas has played important roles in crucial events. For example, it provided psychological support to the traumatized population following the 2010 earthquake. The inscription of the element would strengthen efforts for safeguarding the multiple dimensions of this tradition and facilitate global cultural exchanges''.

R.3:   The nomination file emphasizes that Compas is a deeply rooted practice of cultural heritage, with various communities engaged in initiatives to ensure its continuity and vitality. A support system for the element has been systematically implemented at the national level since 2018, establishing a comprehensive framework for enhancing various initiatives. The nomination file highlights the State’s efforts to provide legal protection for Compas. The Ministry of Culture and Communication has developed a five-year plan to safeguard Compas music, singing and dance. This plan includes projects to identify, document and catalogue different variations of Compas. Other measures include festivals and conferences, which highlight the genre’s social, cultural and economic significance. In addition, the State Party supports the formal transmission of the element in the education system.

R.4:   The nomination file demonstrates the broadest possible participation of communities in the nomination process. The drafting of the nomination was a collective effort, involving a representative committee composed of bearers of the tradition, NGO members and government officials. Many meetings were held with bearers, experts and stakeholders, helping to update the inventory of the element and to collect valuable data. Consent was obtained through community workshops, meetings and written declarations, with the collection of signatures. The file indicates that communities were well informed about the implications of the possible inscription of the element and had ample opportunity to express concerns and help shape the nomination. This constitutes a solid example of collective, gender-inclusive and informed engagement.

R.5:   The element was registered in the National Register of the Intangible Cultural Heritage Inventory of Haiti in 2019. This inventory is maintained by the Directorate of Cultural Heritage of the Ministry of Culture and Communication of Haiti and is regularly updated, most recently on 5 January 2024, in partnership with multiple entities.

3. Decides to inscribe The Compas of Haiti on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity;
4. Commends the State Party for submitting an element defined by the value of unifying people, fostering social coexistence and strengthening bonds, especially in times of crisis.