UNESCO registered the compass

On Wednesday, December 10, 2025, UNESCO inscribed compas, the emblematic musical genre of the Republic of Haiti, on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

This UNESCO announcement is of great importance and brings hope to this Caribbean nation. The compas, its most emblematic musical genre, represents cultural identity and resilience, and constitutes an emotional bond that unites thousands of Haitians, both within and outside their country of origin.

The compas is a heritage that unites social classes and territories. Its inscription on the international list reinforces its position as a cultural cornerstone of the Caribbean and a fundamental expression of Haitian identity.

Created in the 1950s, Nemours Jean-Baptiste is considered one of its founders. This musical genre combines percussion, guitars, keyboards, and syncopated rhythms that define its sensual and constant cadence. This fusion symbolizes Haitian identity and is one of its most exported cultural expressions. Today, it can be said to represent Haiti's main musical expression abroad.

Its practice remains in force throughout the country, as well as in the cities of the Haitian diaspora.

By Patrick Mettelus.