The Added Value of the Postage Stamp in Promoting National Cultural Heritage and Identity

Abstract

This chapter highlights the unique status of the postage stamp that, thanks to its multiple dimensions as an official symbol of its nation, contributes significantly to disseminate and promote the cultural heritage, history, identity, and all aspects of cultural life. Many national and international activities are organized around the postage stamp in the fields of culture, the economy, education, history, tourism, etc. Indeed, postage stamps can be identified with various aspects of philosophy, the economy, and education that are part of “a new paradigm of heritage.” Furthermore, the unique quasi-monetary status of the postage stamp is subject to laws and regulations that are enshrined in an international intergovernmental treaty that is renewed every four years by the 192 member countries of the Universal Postal Union. Such laws are essential to safeguard the postage stamp against industry abuses that are undermining the credibility, name, and identity of stamp-issuing countries as well as depriving their national authorities of important revenue.