The Wendish Research Exchange - Jacobsowa, Theresa / Ines Kellerowa: Greater Visibility for the Sorbs? The Intangible Cultural Legacy and the Sorbs:...

Lětopis Abstract 2021 1: Jacobsowa, Theresa / Ines Kellerowa: Greater Visibility for the Sorbs? The Intangible Cultural Legacy and the Sorbs: Reflections, Challenges and Perspectives

This article is devoted to the application process used by the Sorbs concerning the recognition of their customs and festivals in the course of a year as intangible examples of their cultural heritage in the years of 2013/14 to be included on the federal list of UNESCO in Germany. Starting from fundamental theoretical considerations on the cultural legacy and the general significance of intangible elements for a cultural heritage, above all in relation to UNESCO, the Sorbian application process is presented in detail. The article reflects on the short- and long-term effects, seen sometime after the event, as well as on reactions in the media, and responses on a cultural-political level. A consideration of the risks, challenges and perspectives shows that the application has up until now fulfilled the expectations of the people involved. Long-term consequences on cultural practice, however, require further critical academic consideration.