UNESCO’s Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Regional Register
Description
UNESCO’s Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Regional Register
UNESCO’s Memory of the World (MoW) Programme was launched in 1992 to preserve and promote the world’s documentary heritage. One key part of this initiative is the Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Regional Register, which focuses on recognizing and safeguarding important documentary heritage in the Asia-Pacific region.
What is the Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Regional Register?
The Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Regional Register is a list of documentary heritage items that have been recognized for their historical, cultural, or social significance in the Asia-Pacific region. This can include manuscripts, oral traditions, audiovisual materials, library and archive holdings, and more. The aim is to ensure that these valuable documents are preserved and accessible for future generations.
Why is it Important?
• Preserving History
The register helps preserve the rich and diverse history of the Asia-Pacific region. Many documents are at risk of being lost due to natural disasters, conflict, or deterioration over time. By identifying and preserving these documents, UNESCO helps protect our collective memory.
• Promoting Cultural Understanding
The documents listed in the register provide insight into the cultures, languages, and histories of different communities. This promotes greater understanding and appreciation of the region’s diversity.
• Supporting Education and Research
The registered documents are valuable resources for education and research. They offer authentic sources for historians, scholars, and students, helping to deepen knowledge and stimulate intellectual inquiry.
Recent Notable Entries in the Register
Recently, three Indian literary works—Ramcharitmanas, Panchatantra, and Sahṛdayaloka-Locana—were added to UNESCO’s Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Regional Register.
- Ramcharitmanas: This manuscript was authored by Goswami Tulsidas.
- Panchatantra: Attributed to Vishnu Sharma, this is an ancient Indian collection of interrelated animal fables in verse and prose.
- Sahṛdayaloka-Locana: Written by 15th-century Kashmiri scholars Acharya Anandvardhan and Abhinavagupta, it was chosen for its aesthetic significance.
How Are Items Selected?
The selection process for the Memory of the World Register is rigorous. Items are nominated based on their authenticity, uniqueness, and historical significance. An international committee of experts reviews these nominations and selects those that best meet the criteria. The process ensures that the most valuable and irreplaceable documents are preserved and made accessible to the public.
Conclusion
UNESCO’s Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Regional Register plays a crucial role in preserving the documentary heritage of the region. By safeguarding these documents, we are not only protecting our past but also enriching our present and future. The register promotes cultural understanding, supports education and research, and helps maintain the rich historical tapestry of the Asia-Pacific region for generations to come.
