UNESCO Inscribes Egyptian Koshari on Intangible Cultural Heritage List

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) announced the inscription of Egyptian koshari on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity for 2025, during the meetings of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage held in New Delhi, India.

Dr. Ahmed Fouad Henou, Minister of Culture, expressed his delight at the inscription of Egyptian koshari, making it the eleventh element registered in Egypt's name on the lists of intangible heritage. He stated that this is a further affirmation of the status of Egyptian heritage and its ability to inspire and renew itself, as well as a testament to the international community's appreciation for this heritage, which Egyptians have preserved for centuries.

The Minister of Culture emphasized that the inscription of Egyptian koshari reflects the importance placed on the culture of daily life in Egypt, which represents an integral part of the national identity. He noted that koshari is the first Egyptian dish to be inscribed, and that the coming years will witness the inscription of more elements related to social and cultural practices passed down through generations, reflecting the spirit of participation and diversity within Egyptian society.

Dr. Hano added that this inscription reflects the success of the Egyptian state's efforts in documenting and protecting its heritage, emphasizing the Ministry's continued support for all heritage elements and its commitment to strengthening cooperation with local communities, practitioners, and groups that preserve these living practices.

In the Egyptian delegation's address to the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage following the inscription, Dr. Nahla Imam, Advisor to the Minister of Culture for Intangible Heritage and Egypt's representative to the Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, expressed her gratitude to the Committee for approving the inscription of "Koshari... A Dish of Daily Life" on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.