Kasane, The Bolero, a poignant and rhythmically rich musical form, has been officially registered as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). This recognition occurred during UNESCO’s 18th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, held on December 5, 2023, in Kasane, Botswana.
According to United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, the binational dossier “Bolero: identity, emotion, and poetry made into song” was submitted jointly in March 2022 by the Ministry of Culture of Mexico and the Ministry of Culture of Cuba. This move was in line with the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, to which both countries are signatories. The inscription of Bolero acknowledges its profound significance, ensuring the safeguarding of this cultural practice in collaboration with the communities who cherish it.
Originating in Cuba in 1883, the Bolero has since traversed borders, gaining immense popularity in Mexico and other Latin American countries. Characterized by its heartfelt lyrics of love and heartbreak, the Bolero encompasses a blend of rhythmic percussion, guitars, basses, pianos, winds, and the distinctive Mexican requinto. This rich musical amalgamation, often performed solo or in groups, has cemented the Bolero as a vital element of both Cuban and Mexican cultural identities.
The Bolero’s journey from Cuba to Mexico and beyond highlights its role as a unifying cultural practice, fostering community interactions and knowledge transmission across generations. Its presence in family and community gatherings, ranging from celebrations to mourning ceremonies, underscores its integral place in the social fabric of these nations.
The efforts to include Bolero in the UNESCO ICH Representative List began in 2015 with the establishment of the Bolero Institute of Mexico, culminating in its national inventory registration in 2018. The subsequent joint candidacy with Cuba demonstrates the shared cultural heritage and the continuous dialogue between the two nations, united by the rhythm of Bolero.
The comprehensive Safeguarding Plan devised for Bolero encompasses education, training, visibility, and strengthening the capacities of practitioners. This inscription not only celebrates the Bolero as a cultural artifact but also as a dynamic, living heritage that continues to inspire and evolve within urban and rural communities alike. It solidifies Bolero’s status as a cultural right and a symbol of diversity, strengthening its preservation for future generations and enhancing its international reach.