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UNESCO Adds Swiss Jodeling to Intangible Cultural Heritage List

Switzerland now commits to safeguard the practice through expanded youth programs, formal training, documentation, research.

Overview

  • The intergovernmental committee approved the Swiss nomination at its 20th session in New Delhi, where Italian cuisine, Icelandic pool culture and Diwali were also added.
  • The Swiss Federal Office of Culture detailed next steps including school initiatives such as the “jodelnde Klassenzimmer,” enhanced training pathways and systematic research.
  • Authorities cite more than 12,000 practitioners organized in 711 groups under the national yodel association, highlighting the scope of preservation efforts.
  • Scholars note the listing recognizes Switzerland’s specific history and repertoire, with other jodel traditions already on UNESCO lists in Zimbabwe and Georgia.
  • Practitioners and educators welcomed the decision, with Luzern-based jodel professor Nadja Räss describing the recognition as “an incredibly good feeling.”