INCD Position on New UNESCO Treaty

UNESCO

Paris, France

June 3, 2005

The International Network for Cultural Diversity took a cautious approach on the final outcome of UNESCO negotiations for a new convention on cultural diversity. 

Speaking in Paris today, Garry Neil, INCD Executive Director said: “If the objective of the new Treaty is to declare the right of States to implement cultural policies and to establish a new foundation for future cooperation, the Treaty has succeeded.  If the objective is to carve out cultural goods and services from the trade agreements, the Treaty is inadequate, at least in the short term.”

Since 2000, the INCD has been in the forefront of the campaign to advocate for a legally binding convention on cultural diversity to halt the growing pressure on cultural policies caused by the multilateral and bilateral trade agreements.   It represents more than 400 cultural organizations in 71 countries.

“We appreciate the efforts of negotiators to deal with very difficult issues over the past months.  INCD will carefully analyze the final text over the next few weeks to assess its value as a tool for protecting and promoting cultural diversity.”

For more information:

Garry Neil 1.416.268.5665 or 00.32.2.732.5830