UNESCO has officially added the centuries-old tradition of Nablus soap-making to its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The announcement was made on Tuesday during the 19th session of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage, held in Asuncion, Paraguay, reports Middle East Eye.
The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates welcomed the decision, describing it as a vital step toward protecting and celebrating Palestinian culture on the global stage. The ministry noted that this recognition helps preserve a deeply rooted tradition that forms part of Palestinian identity, while also pushing back against attempts to erase Palestinian culture under the Israeli occupation.
Made with natural ingredients, primarily olive oil, and following techniques passed down through generations, Nablus soap remains a symbol of Palestinian resilience and artistry.
The ministry expressed gratitude to UNESCO member states for supporting Palestine’s nomination and acknowledged the tireless efforts of local and international partners, including Palestine’s UNESCO mission, the Ministry of Culture and the National Commission for Education, Culture and Science, in preparing the application and meeting UNESCO’s criteria.
Furthermore, the ministry called on the international community to safeguard Palestinian culture from ongoing threats, urging protection for it history, heritage and identity amidst efforts by the Israeli occupation state to erase them.
