The Swiss government nominated yodeling for UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage. This move recognizes the centuries-old singing tradition as a key part of Switzerland’s cultural identity, according to Euronews.
Alpine herders originally used yodeling to communicate across the mountains, but it is now widely embraced as a popular singing style rooted in Swiss folk music. The Swiss Yodeling Association reports that about 12,000 people perform in 780 groups across the country. Some people even want to introduce yodeling in primary schools to highlight its role in Swiss heritage and identity.
UNESCO’s list aims to highlight cultural practices, skills, and traditions that are passed down through generations. The agency, based in Paris, is expected to announce its decision on Switzerland’s nomination by the end of the year.
