In a landmark decision for Caribbean cultural preservation, the Barbados Landship tradition has been formally inscribed on UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding. The designation was announced during the 20th Session of the Intergovernmental Committee for Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage in New Delhi, India on December 9.
Senator Dr. Shantal Munro-Knight, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office with responsibility for Culture, witnessed the historic proclamation firsthand. She characterized the UNESCO recognition as a pivotal achievement for Barbadian national identity, emphasizing that it validates both the cultural significance and enduring value of the Landship as a living expression of Barbadian heritage.
The Minister highlighted the pressing challenges facing the tradition, including modernization trends, evolving community structures, and the gradual loss of elder knowledge. In response, the Barbadian government has partnered with the Barbados Landship Association to implement comprehensive safeguarding measures. These initiatives include expanded youth engagement programs integrated into school curricula, community workshops, and specialized training programs designed to preserve the knowledge, rituals, and artistic expressions central to the Landship tradition.
Senator Munro-Knight reaffirmed the government’s commitment to empowering community custodians and knowledge bearers who serve as guardians of this heritage. She noted that for 160 years, the Landship has symbolized community solidarity, unity, pride, and mutual support—values that continue to guide Barbadian society.
Wayne Worrell, President of the Barbados Landship Association, welcomed the UNESCO designation as a crucial step toward ensuring the transmission of the association’s traditions, practices, and expressions to future generations.
The Barbadian delegation is scheduled to return home on December 12, where they will be greeted with a welcome ceremony at Grantley Adams International Airport.