UNESCO Convention concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage 1970 World Heritage List Procedure for inscription Properties of “outstanding universal value” conflict between universality and cultural diversity Landscapes included associative cultural landscapes “powerful religious, artistic or cultural associations of the natural element” Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park (Australia) Tongariro National Park (New Zealand) natural landscapes with biological elements Management policies ensuring protection
Recommendation on the Safeguarding of Traditional Culture and Folklore 1969 Definition totality of tradition-based creations of a cultural community, expressed by a group or individuals and recognized as reflecting the expectations of a community in so far as they reflect its cultural and social identity (includes language, literature, music, dance, games, mythology, rituals, customs, handicrafts, architecture and other arts).
Protection of bio-diversity? Emphasis on scholarship and research Largely regarded as ineffective
Proposed international convention for the safeguarding of the intangible cultural heritage Nature of instrument? Modelled on World Heritage Convention? Definition? Other UNESCO programmes Living Human Treasures Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity
WORLD INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY ORGANIZATION (WIPO) Copyright, patents and trade marks Exercise on Genetic Resources, Traditional Knowledge and Folklore Intergovernmental Committee proposed Followed information gathering Meetings April and December 2001: June 2002 and coming December 2002
Report: “Intellectual Property Needs and Expectations of Traditional Knowledge Holders” Possible new IP tools to protect TK and development of sui generis system of community or collective rights Consider TK in assessing rights to IP Suggests separating issues of loss of plant genetic resources from those concerning loss of cultural or folklore diversity
Conclusion Many international organizations now interested in knowledge of spiritual leaders and traditional healers For long-term viability of plant life Preservation of bio-diversity on sacred sites Preservation of cultural diversity Preservation of the environment