Ibn Khaldoun’s ‘Al-Muqaddimah’ Enters UNESCO Memory of the World Bid

Algeria has joined Tunisia, Egypt, and Turkey in a joint submission to UNESCO for the inclusion of Ibn Khaldoun's seminal work, 'Al-Muqaddimah', in the Memory of the World Register. The bid, coordinated by Tunisia, was submitted for the 2026-2027 cycle, highlighting a collective effort to recognize the profound intellectual contributions of the celebrated scholar on a global stage.

The decision to pursue a joint nomination stems from UNESCO's guidelines, which permit countries possessing original manuscripts of a nominated work, or those that have contributed to its valorization, to participate in such submissions. This approach acknowledges the multi-country nature of the manuscript heritage associated with 'Al-Muqaddimah' and reflects Ibn Khaldoun's extensive travels and influence across various nations, including Algeria. The collaboration underscores the shared cultural and intellectual legacy of the participating states.

Currently, the joint submission is undergoing evaluation by UNESCO's accredited expert committees. The final decision regarding the inclusion of 'Al-Muqaddimah' in the Memory of the World Register is anticipated to be announced in the spring of 2027. This initiative represents a significant step in promoting invaluable documentary heritage and fostering international cooperation through cultural diplomacy.