Since 2000 when the INCD was formed, the worldwide
cultural diversity movement has gained considerable momentum. The INCD represents non-governmental
organizations in 70 countries and the parallel network of culture ministers has
grown to 53 countries. Debates about
cultural diversity occupy an increasingly important place at the World Social
Forum and other civil society events.
Professional organizations are mobilizing after a recent meeting in
Paris and the formation of eight national coalitions.
The concept of a new international convention to
recognize that governments have a right to adopt measures to promote cultural
diversity and a responsibility to promote diversity and threatened cultures has
burst onto the worldwide agenda. Two
draft conventions have been circulated, one from civil society and one from
governments. UNESCO has agreed to
consider, at its 2003 General Conference, taking responsibility for a legally
binding treaty. In the face of
significant pressure in trade negotiations to roll back cultural measures, more
governments are agreeing to refrain from making any commitments that would affect
their ability to support cultural diversity until this treaty is implemented.
Debate has also started about what comes after a
treaty is agreed. The role of civil
society is to ensure that the fundamental purpose of the treaty is
respected. Governments must use the
authority of the treaty to develop programs and policies to support their own
artists and cultural producers.
Intergovernmental agencies must work with countries to develop the
capacity to occupy the space the treaty can provide for domestic cultural
expressions.
The INCD’s fourth annual
conference will bring together members, experts, government representatives,
national coalitions and others to examine the state of the cultural diversity
debate, the relationship between the emerging international networks and the
continuing role of civil society.
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