This shared heritage, registered with the collective participation of several regional countries—including seven member states of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO): Afghanistan, the Republic of Azerbaijan, Iran, Türkiye, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan—reflects ancient knowledge, indigenous skills, and deeply rooted traditions transmitted from generation to generation over centuries.
Traditional silk production is a long-standing process that begins with the cultivation of mulberry trees and the rearing of silkworms, continuing through the extraction of fibers from cocoons, spinning, natural dyeing, and the production of valuable textiles. The outcome of this traditional art-industry is the creation of various exquisite fabrics, carpets, rugs, and other handwoven products that hold a special place in the cultures of the region.
The Astonishing Diversity of Silk Products Among ECO Member States Each member state, relying on its indigenous knowledge, has developed unique silk products:
• Afghanistan: Despite the challenges of recent decades, thousands of women in Herat and Kandahar have kept this ancient tradition alive by rearing silkworms in their homes.
• The Republic of Azerbaijan: The silk headscarf known as "Kelaghayi," with a history of over 1,500 years, is a symbol of the country's cultural identity and is also independently inscribed on the UNESCO list.
• Iran: With over three thousand years of continuous sericulture in provinces such as Guilan (particularly Torbat-e Heydarieh as a major production hub and Osku in East Azerbaijan), silk plays a pivotal role in weaving exquisite Iranian carpets and traditional textiles.
• Tajikistan: The birthplace of "Atlas" and "Adras" fabrics (a type of striped textile) using pattern-weaving techniques and Ikat (resist dyeing), which is currently being revitalized through international projects following the collapse of the Soviet Union.
• Turkmenistan: The homeland of the authentic "Keteni" fabric, renowned for its vibrant patterns and high durability, as well as the weaving of fine carpets made from pure silk yarn.
• Türkiye: In addition to sustaining historical traditions, innovative projects such as "Peace Silk"—utilizing the indigenous "Hatay Yellow" silkworm—are currently being implemented to promote sustainable production, ethical trade, and the empowerment of women and youth.
• Uzbekistan: Ranking as the world's third-largest silk producer (after China and India), contributing around 5% of global production. The historic city of Margilan has served as a hub for traditional silk production and Ikat (Atlas) textiles for over a thousand years.
Presence in Rituals and Social Occasions Silk products play a prominent role in numerous social rituals and ceremonies, ranging from family celebrations (such as bridal dowries and festive garments) to traditional gatherings (including prayer rugs and tokens of honor). Beyond their economic value, they carry profound cultural and identity-related meanings. This tradition, rooted in the rich history of the Silk Road, is considered a symbol of social solidarity and cultural interaction among nations.
Social and Economic Impact Far beyond a mere economic activity, traditional silk production provides a vital platform for empowering local communities, particularly women. This profession, often conducted alongside agriculture, offers a supplementary and sustainable income for families while fostering a culture of "Hamazori" (cooperation and social participation). Throughout history, the trade and production of silk have laid the groundwork for exchanging culture, art, knowledge, and experience, playing an influential role in shaping civilizational connections.
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead This precious heritage faces several threats: conflicts, structural disruptions post-Soviet collapse, rapid industrialization, climate change, scarcity of mulberry trees, and unequal competition from cheap mass-produced industrial fabrics. Nonetheless, promising opportunities exist, including international projects aimed at reviving traditional sericulture, documenting ancient techniques, training the younger generation, and developing cultural tourism that transforms these crafts into living attractions for visitors.