UNESCO Candidacy to be Reviewed in 2025
The Moroccan Caftan to be Reviewed by UNESCO for Intangible Cultural Heritage Listing
The Kingdom of Morocco’s application to include the Moroccan Caftan on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity 2025 will officially be reviewed this December, as announced by UNESCO.
According to a statement from the organization, the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage will examine Morocco’s dossier during its 20th ordinary session, scheduled to take place from December 8 to 13 in New Delhi, India.
A Rich Moroccan Dossier: “Moroccan Caftan, Art, Traditions, and Expertise”
Filed under the title “Moroccan Caftan: Art, Traditions, and Expertise,” the candidacy aims to include this iconic garment on a list that highlights cultural practices, traditions, and knowledge that are integral to the identity of communities.
In its submission, Morocco describes the Caftan as a traditional outfit deeply rooted in history, with influences and forms that have evolved from the medieval period to the present day.
A Plural Heritage and Ancestral Craftsmanship
The Moroccan Caftan reflects a synthesis of Arab, Amazigh, and Jewish cultures, shaped by renowned artisans known as m’almine, who possess centuries-old expertise.
Its manufacturing is characterized by:
silk thread trimmings,
embroidery in silk or gold thread,
handcrafted bead and sequin embellishments,
noble textiles such as brocade.
This diversity makes each Caftan unique, with styles, colors, and patterns varying according to the regions of the Kingdom.
A Continuously Evolving Creation Thanks to Moroccan Designers
UNESCO highlights that the modernization of the Caftan is owed to a new generation of Moroccan designers, who successfully blend tradition with innovation. Their work contributes to the global rise of this garment, which has become a worldwide reference for Moroccan elegance.
54 Applications Under Review for the 2025 Session
During this 20th session, the Intergovernmental Committee will review 54 applications, including:
6 requests for extensions for already listed elements,
proposals for the List of Cultural Heritage in Urgent Need of Safeguarding,
applications for the Register of Good Safeguarding Practices.
The aim is to continue promoting global cultural diversity and to encourage community efforts to preserve their living heritage.
UNESCO Reaffirms Its Commitment to Living Heritage
As part of the 2003 Convention, UNESCO recalls that its three international lists now comprise 788 elements originating from 150 countries.
Intangible heritage includes:
oral traditions,
performing arts,
social and ritual practices,
traditional knowledge
— all recognized by communities as integral parts of their identity.
Unlike monuments, this is a living heritage, evolving alongside societies. According to UNESCO, this heritage reinforces belonging, stimulates creativity, and promotes intercultural dialogue.
