Berlin’s vibrant techno scene has recently been honoured with inclusion in UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage list, a prestigious recognition designed to preserve and support cultural traditions worldwide.
This list, which has previously acknowledged Malta’s own treasures such as the Ftira in 2020, Għana music in 2021, and the Maltese Village Festa in 2023, now celebrates the iconic Berlin techno culture for its global influence and unique contribution to the cultural landscape.
The addition of Berlin’s techno scene to the UNESCO list marks a significant achievement for the city’s network of techno producers, artists, club operators, and event organisers. The Clubcommission, a key organisation within the Berlin techno community, hailed this recognition as a major milestone. A spokesperson for the organisation shared with German broadcaster DW the importance of this decision, stating it will help preserve club culture as “a valuable sector worthy of protection and support.”
The campaign to have techno culture and music recognised by UNESCO has been ongoing for more than a decade, spearheaded by Rave the Planet, a non-profit organisation dedicated to supporting electronic music culture. The recent inclusion of Jamaican reggae and the Indian Kumbh Mela festival on UNESCO’s list served as a catalyst, inspiring community leaders to intensify their efforts for Berlin techno’s recognition.
This acknowledgment by UNESCO not only celebrates the rich cultural fabric of Berlin but also emphasises the importance of protecting and supporting diverse cultural expressions around the world. It underscores techno’s significant role in shaping not just Berlin’s identity, but also its impact on the global music and cultural scene.
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