UNESCO has officially inscribed Xeer Ciise, the ancient oral customary law of the Somali-Issa people, on its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The recognition, announced during UNESCO’s 19th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage in Asunción, Paraguay, marks a milestone for the preservation of a rich and historically significant tradition.
This achievement comes as a result of a joint submission by Djibouti, Ethiopia, and Somalia, underscoring the shared cultural and historical bonds that unite Somali-Issa communities across the three nations.
Xeer Ciise is an oral legal framework that governs social, economic, and political life within the Somali-Issa clan. Rooted in centuries of tradition, it functions as a customary law system that emphasizes collective decision-making, conflict resolution, and the equitable sharing of resources.
The Somali-Issa community, which spans the borders of Djibouti, Ethiopia, and Somalia, uses Xeer Ciise to address disputes and maintain social harmony. At the heart of this system is the leadership of a single figure, the Ugas, who is traditionally based in Dire Dawa, Ethiopia. The Ugas serves as both a custodian of cultural traditions and a unifying figure for Somali-Issa clans across the region.
The recognition of Xeer Ciise highlights its unique role in fostering regional integration. The Somali-Issa people’s cross-border connections make Xeer Ciise a unifying force in the Horn of Africa, promoting cultural continuity and collaboration between the three countries.
In addition to its legal and social significance, the framework holds immense potential for boosting tourism and cultural exchanges. The recognition by UNESCO is expected to draw international attention to the Somali-Issa heritage, creating opportunities for regional development while deepening cross-border friendships.
UNESCO’s inscription comes with a commitment to safeguard Xeer Ciise for future generations. The recognition not only raises the profile of this intangible cultural heritage but also emphasizes the need for collaborative efforts to protect and preserve it in the face of modernization and other challenges.
The governments of Djibouti, Ethiopia, and Somalia have expressed their shared responsibility to ensure that Xeer Ciise continues to thrive. Initiatives are expected to include the documentation of oral traditions, community education programs, and the promotion of cultural tourism.
The recognition of Xeer Ciise as a world heritage underscores the Horn of Africa’s vast and diverse cultural legacy. It serves as a reminder of the region’s interconnected histories and the resilience of its traditions in navigating modern challenges.
For Djibouti, Ethiopia, and Somalia, the inscription represents more than cultural recognition—it symbolizes a commitment to unity, cooperation, and the celebration of shared heritage. By safeguarding Xeer Ciise, the three nations reinforce their roles as stewards of Africa’s rich cultural diversity, preserving a tradition that has shaped the Somali-Issa people for generations.
As Xeer Ciise joins UNESCO’s prestigious list, it offers the global community a glimpse into the rich oral traditions of the Somali-Issa people. It also underscores the importance of intangible cultural heritage as a means of fostering peace, understanding, and connection among communities.
This recognition marks a significant step forward in ensuring that Africa’s living traditions continue to be celebrated and preserved, contributing to a broader narrative of global cultural heritage. For the Somali-Issa people, Xeer Ciise remains a testament to their enduring identity and a bridge linking their past, present, and future.
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