The Committee
- Takes note that Romania and the Republic of Moldova have nominated Cobza, traditional knowledge, skills and music (No. 02262) for inscription on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity:
The cobza is a pear-shaped string instrument with a short neck and wooden body, traditionally used to provide rhythm and harmony in folk music. It can be played solo or in groups and is usually strummed with a folded goose feather. Though its design has changed slightly over time, such as with the recent use of metal strings, the instrument still maintains its traditional form, especially when it is crafted by local makers. The cobza is mostly used in rural communities, where it has long been part of social gatherings, dances and celebrations.
- 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: People who make and play the cobza come from different backgrounds, including various ethnic groups and urban and rural areas. Traditionally, the knowledge and skills related to playing and crafting the cobza were passed down informally, from masters to apprentices. Today, young musicians also study the cobza in arts schools and universities. Crafting the cobza requires years of hands-on experience and research into old instruments, often found in homes or museums. An important part of community life, the cobza contributes to the transmission of other traditions, such as dance, traditional attire and storytelling. Its continued use strengthens cultural identity and social bonds in the regions where it is played.
R.2: The submitting State Party consistently demonstrates that, as cobza is part of a set of cultural expressions created and disseminated by communities located mainly in rural and marginal areas, the inscription of this element would contribute to improving their self-perception and self-esteem. It would also contribute to peace and social cohesion among practitioners from different ethnic groups and social backgrounds, from both older and younger generations, including men and women, as an increasing number of women and girls have begun to learn the instrument to express their creativity and identity. In addition, it could improve quality education, in connection with respect for the rules of interpretation and transmission of cobza, and foster inclusive economic development, given the possibility of earning a decent income. Finally, through the use of organic materials, the element is environmentally sustainable.
R.3: The nomination file demonstrates well-developed safeguarding measures that involve both States Parties and the communities concerned, adopting a balanced approach that combines documentation, education, awareness-raising and international cooperation. Transmission is ensured through formal and non-formal education, as well as community-led initiatives. The participation of practitioners and cultural institutions in research, festivals and media activities illustrates sustained engagement and commitment. Cross-border collaboration and institutional support are effectively mobilized to promote the element and contribute to its long-term viability.
R.4: The nomination file demonstrates bearers’ contribution to all phases of the nomination process at the national level in each State. Bearers participated in seminars, discussions and consultations concerning the element and the risks it faces in the current context. The safeguarding plan was designed to address these risks, and stakeholders in each country (governmental bodies, experts, cultural workers, museum curators, educators, volunteers and representatives of non-governmental organizations) are committed to actively and creatively preserve the knowledge and skills related to cobza culture.
R.5: The element was included in the National Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage Elements in Romania and in the National Register of Intangible Cultural Heritage of the Republic of Moldova in 2024. The first one is maintained by the National Commission for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage in Romania and is updated whenever there is an adequate proposal from communities, groups, individuals or cultural experts/heritage institutions. The second one is maintained by the National Institute of Heritage of the National Commission for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage in Moldova. It is updated on the basis of heritage files elaborated by institutions with competences in this filed, with the wide participation of specialists, communities, groups, non-governmental organizations, bearers and all the interested persons.
- Decides to inscribe Cobza, traditional knowledge, skills and music on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.