UNESCO inscribes Spring Festival on intangible cultural heritage list
Dec 5, 2024
59:45
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Quick takeaways
South Korea is undergoing a severe political crisis with the potential impeachment of President Yoon Suk-yeol amidst widespread public outrage.
UNESCO's recognition of the Spring Festival as intangible cultural heritage underscores China's commitment to preserving traditional culture and promoting its values globally.
The UN has highlighted a growing crisis of internal displacement affecting over 76 million people, emphasizing the need for comprehensive international support strategies.
Deep dives
Political Turmoil in South Korea
South Korea is currently facing significant political turmoil as the ruling party vows to resist opposition efforts to impeach President Yoon Suk-youl. The Korean National Police Agency is investigating the president for a possible crime of internal insurrection, following his declaration of short-lived martial law, an unprecedented act in recent history. Public reaction is one of shock and outrage, with many questioning how such a situation could occur in a democratic society. Yoon's approval ratings have plummeted to just 17%, and the political crisis has intensified calls for his resignation, highlighting a deep divide within the nation.
France's Government Ousted
The French government collapsed after a historic no-confidence vote ousted Prime Minister Michel Barnier, marking the first such occurrence in over 50 years. The decision, supported by a coalition of left- and right-wing lawmakers, reflects widespread dissatisfaction with the government's handling of pressing domestic issues, including a financial crisis. Following the vote, the opposition has called for President Emmanuel Macron's resignation, further plunging the country into political uncertainty. This event has prompted concerns about the future governance of France and the passage of critical legislation, particularly regarding the 2025 budget.
UNESCO Recognizes China's Spring Festival
UNESCO has added China's Spring Festival to its representative list of intangible cultural heritage, acknowledging its rich cultural significance and the variety of rituals associated with it. This recognition is seen as a reflection of China's efforts to preserve and promote its traditional culture on an international stage. The festival, celebrated by nearly 20% of the global population, emphasizes themes of reunion and harmony, signifying the beginning of the lunar new year. Chinese officials have expressed that this inclusion will help promote universal values and further showcase traditional festivities to a global audience.
Displacement Crisis Amid Global Conflicts
The UN has reported that wars, disasters, and criminal violence have left over 76 million people internally displaced worldwide, a number that has doubled in the last decade. Many of these displaced individuals remain largely invisible since they have not crossed international borders, lacking a dedicated agency or global initiatives to support them. The UN advisor highlighted that despite some countries proposing policies to address the displacement crisis, significant challenges remain in implementing effective solutions. There is a pressing need for increased international investment and comprehensive strategies to prevent new displacements and support those affected.
Economic Impacts of South Korea's Political Crisis
The recent political chaos in South Korea has raised lingering economic concerns as investors grapple with uncertainty following President Yoon's short-lived martial law declaration. Although the immediate economic impacts appear to be manageable, experts warn of potential long-term repercussions on investor confidence and international trade relations. South Korean financial authorities are taking steps to stabilize the market, including the mobilization of a substantial stock market stabilization fund. Small businesses, already struggling with inflation, are particularly anxious about the ongoing political situation and its possible effects on the economy as a whole.
South Korea’s opposition is preparing to vote on a motion to impeach President Yoon Suk-yeol, while the ruling People Power party vows to oppose the move(01:04). UNESCO has inscribed the Spring Festival on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity(09:39). The China Council for the Promotion of International Trade condemns the United States for its misuse of semiconductor export control measures(41:10).
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