An Comunn Gàidhealach, the organisers of the Royal National Mòd, said Unesco should bestow world heritage designation on the Gaelic language, customs and culture of the Western Isles.
Unseco status would l help safeguard and keep alive the inherited heritage associated with the Gaelic community.
In his address at the official opening of the week-
Calls for Unesco designation to safeguard Gaelic heritage of Western Isles
17 October 2016
"That does not mean that this is the only area where Gaelic will survive. Gaelic will survive elsewhere in Scotland where the number of speakers continues to increase, but if the special environment that still exists in the Western Isles is lost, the very heart of the language will be lost."
He pointed out that since 2008, nearly 400 cultural traditions throughout the world have been listed by Unesco as meriting support to maintain their unique “intangible cultural heritage”, ranging from oral traditions to performing arts, traditional dances and craftsmanship.
However, none are in the UK.
Mr Macleod believes the distinctive “seann nòs” or traditional singing customs of Gaelic heritage in Scotland, and in particular the Western Isles, "deserves to be recognised alongside these other cultural traditions."
Comhairle nan Eilean Siar backed the call.
Convener of Norman A MacDonald said: "Anything that can be done to preserve, enhance and develop Gaelic as a language is to be warmly welcomed.
"The Callanish stones already has a Unesco designation and St Kilda has dual World
Heritage status -
"Such a designation being proposed for Gaelic would ensure that the heritage and culture of the Hebrides is put on a par with similar cultures and traditions around the world."
Mr Macdonald continued: "The Comhairle has been, and continues to be, very supportive of Gaelic in all of its operations and that support will continue in the future.
"We would, of course, be fully supportive of An Comunn's calls for Gaelic and the traditional cultural heritage to be given Unesco World Heritage status.
"We look forward to assisting An Comunn with their efforts."