Capoeira and Tango: Popular participation in the recognition of cultural heritage

Abstract

This paper provides a comparative analysis of the processes involved in registering two cultural expressions as cultural heritage: Roda de Capoeira and Tango. The paper aims to investigate whether the legal and political principle of popular participation was respected when these assets were recognized as Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Specifically, it aims to describe the identification and registration processes on UNESCO's Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heri tage and evaluate the participation of heritage custodians. This qualitative, descriptive study is based on bibliographic and documentary sources and uses content analysis techniques as well as critical and dogmatic documentary analysis approaches. A compa rative analysis was carried out through case studies organized into three phases: (1) chronological systematization of the registration process, (2) identification of community participation mechanisms, and (3) contrast between the regulatory framework and its empirical application. Sources were included based on their thematic relevance, availability, and ability to document key moments in the process. The results indicate that, in the analyzed cases, spaces for community participation were generated, albe it scarce and disparate. Brazil has a structured safeguarding and participation process, while Argentina's depends on specific actions. Both countries face a necropolitical past and structural barriers.