Baghdad: The Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Antiquities’ recent efforts have led to the inclusion of four new elements from Iraq on UNESCO’s list of intangible cultural heritage. The Undersecretary of the Ministry for Cultural Affairs, Fadhil Muhammad Al-Badrani, expressed his congratulations to Iraq and the Ministry of Culture for this achievement. The newly recognized elements are the bisht, the zaffa, the game of Muhaibis, and kohl.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Al-Badrani emphasized that this accomplishment enhances Iraq’s cultural presence on international platforms. He credited the success to the efforts of the Center for the Protection and Preservation of Heritage and the Department of Public Cultural Relations, with support from ALECSO experts.

Al-Badrani highlighted that the inclusion of Muhaibis, a traditional game associated with Ramadan rituals, is a testament to the professional work of the Center for the Protection and Preservation of Intangible Heritage. He also noted Iraq’s contribution to the bisht file within a joint Arab initiative, which included skills and practices related to its manufacture and wearing. In addition, Iraq supported the inclusion of traditional kohl, an aesthetic and health practice, and the zaffa, which represents marriage celebration rituals in Arab societies. Al-Badrani pointed out that these elements reflect Iraq’s rich tapestry of celebratory traditions.

The Undersecretary concluded by stating that the recognition of these elements underscores Iraq’s status as the cradle of ancient civilizations. It demonstrates that by preserving its heritage and documenting cultural memory, Iraq is a vibrant nation capable of linking its past with the present to build a better future.