Working Documents

Theme 2 - Cultural Diversity and Globalization: Consideration of an International Instrument on Cultural Diversity

In Santorini, Greece, in September 2000, Ministers identified an International Instrument on Cultural Diversity as a global focal point to promote diversity of cultural expression and identity. The Ministers endorsed a preliminary series of cultural diversity principles. «Ministers charged the Working Group on Cultural Diversity and Globalization to continue its work by elaborating on the framework and scope of a cultural diversity instrument for their 2001 annual meeting».

The Working Group suggested that an International Instrument on Cultural Diversity should focus on the promotion and preservation of cultural diversity in the face of the challenges of globalization – including rapid technological advancement and trade liberalization. The instrument should be developed with the understanding that cultural diversity implies both the preservation and promotion of existing cultures and the greatest possible openness to other cultures. In this context, the Working Group discussed the idea of an International Instrument on Cultural Diversity that would articulate the close and important relationship between cultural diversity and international social and economic development, while also reinforcing the legitimate role of governments to preserve and promote cultural diversity. In the new global world there is a need to find a balance between the mix of building human security and civic participation, strengthening diverse cultural expression, creating prosperity and addressing the particular needs of the developing world. Internationally, the challenge is to undertake actions to promote cultural diversity in ways that respond to and are reflective of all regions, both developing and developed.

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