Cultural significance of Reggae music honoured by Unesco
Video report by ITV News Correspondent Richard Pallot
The cultural and social influence of reggae music has been honoured by Unesco for its "social commentary" and for providing a "voice for all".
The genre has been added to the prestigious intangible cultural heritage list, which aims to honour and promote non-physical traditions.
Unesco - the cultural arm of the United Nations - said the Jamaican music was unique.
It said reggae represents “a vehicle of social commentary” and “continues to provide a voice for all” since it was first created by marginalised groups, mainly in the western part of the Caribbean island's capital Kingston.
The music – which combines Caribbean, Latin and North American influences – also provides a “cathartic experience” when played and is often used as a means of praising God, the agency added.
Unesco committees are holding their latest round of heritage inscriptions in the Mauritius capital Port Louis.