The Committee
- Takes note that Poland has nominated Basketry traditions (No. 02230) for inscription on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity:
Basketry is the art of using natural materials such as wicker, roots, straw, cattail, linden bark and bast to weave practical items and decorations. It is practised by people of all genders. Some weavers work independently, while others are commissioned by businesses. Many certified weavers lead organizations and offer courses or open workshops. Although weavers typically work in home workshops, they are active in their local communities, sharing the craft and promoting its cultural importance through events such as contests, fairs and exhibitions.
- 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: A source of pride for local communities, basketry is passed down through generations, with older weavers teaching younger ones, often within families, schools or workshops. In families, children learn by watching and imitating older weavers. Schools and open workshops also teach weaving techniques, raw material preparation, and the use of tools. Some certified masters lead formal classes, following structured programmes in schools and other educational settings. Cultural groups and institutions also organize workshops to keep the tradition alive. Because basketry depends on the availability of local materials, it is deeply connected to the environment and promotes sustainability. It also helps support local economies, with weavers earning extra income by making and selling their products.
R.2: Cultural practices associated with basketry are strongly connected to nature and contribute to its conservation, as all artisanal production depends on the availability of raw materials of plant origin. Women's participation is highlighted in this activity, as they play a central role in the main weaving institutions and associations. In the educational and professional fields, basket weaving is recognized as culturally significant and potentially useful for the social and professional rehabilitation of people with disabilities. The inscription of the element would ensure visibility and awareness of the significance of intangible cultural heritage, encourage dialogue that respects cultural diversity, and promote human creativity.
R.3: The safeguarding of the element is ensured by municipalities and cultural institutions in close cooperation with bearers. They conduct educational and exhibition activities, organize promotional events, and develop projects aimed at passing on knowledge to younger generations. The safeguarding measures are well-developed and show a balance between community-led efforts and institutional support.
R.4: Basketry communities participated in the preparation of the nomination file through a series of information meetings, debates, and public consultations held between October 2022 and November 2023. Participants included practitioners, experts and representatives of institutions involved in safeguarding traditions, such as local authorities, cultural institutions, universities and schools. Representatives from key bearer organizations contributed with information, photographs and film material. They also verified entries in the nomination file.
R.5: The element was included in the National List of Intangible Cultural Heritage, as five separate files, between 2017 and 2023. The List is managed by the National Institute of Cultural Heritage, which is also responsible for updating it every five years. The bearers of the elements prepare periodic reports and participate in cyclical meetings to monitor and update the list.
- Decides to inscribe Basketry traditions on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.