This historic recognition of culture as an integral component of advancing a more equitable future for everyone is the result of UNESCO's ongoing multilateral efforts and campaigning, notably at UNESCO's international conference?MONDIACULT 2022, the?G20, and the G7.
On Sunday, the Heads of State and Government chose to place culture at the heart of their response to the strategic challenges of our century. This decision recognizes the essential role this sector plays in the cohesion and transformation of our societies. It is the result of an ambitious multilateral dialogue led by UNESCO, which must now compel us to make culture a fully-fledged sustainable development objective by 2030.
This recognition comes only a few days after the landmark declaration by Ministers of Culture of G7 countries at the G7 meeting in Naples on 20 September 2024. The Declaration adopts an inclusive view of culture spanning "natural and cultural heritage, tangible and intangible, the arts, creative industries and knowledge systems" and its "intrinsic value beyond its social, environmental and economic benefits", mirroring the comprehensive UNESCO programmes for culture. This represents a decisive step towards integrating culture into social and economic policies in the world’s largest economies and the contribution of UNESCO as a leading multilateral partner.
Across the world, promoting and safeguarding culture has led to economic development for communities. For example, in Mexico, renewed interest in traditional Mayan embroidery has meant Yucatán women artisans can build thriving textile businesses, based on this intangible cultural heritage. UNESCO is helping them develop finance and management skills so they can earn a better living.
Another example of how culture has benefitted artists financially can be found in Nigeria, and the thriving film industry established there. Filmmakers and content creators are now establishing major deals with international streaming companies, which include Amazon and Netflix. UNESCO is working to unleash the potential of the African creative industries, and according to recent report, the audiovisual industry has the potential to add US$20 billion to the continent’s combined GDP.
These are just two examples of the economic and social impact culture can have when communities and countries invest in it. By adopting the "Pact for the Future", states have explicitly identified culture as an "action point" within the UN sustainable development agenda for the first time. The Pact calls for the integration of culture into economic, social, and environmental policies. It also aims to strengthen international cooperation on the return or restitution of cultural properties.
The summit is not the end, but an important step towards an inclusive global vision and support around culture. Building on the momentum, UNESCO will convene another World Conference on Cultural Policies and Sustainable Development?MONDIACULT 2025?in Barcelona, Spain. The conference will build consensus with high-level decision-makers and civil society actors on culture and development.
