UNESCO and Creativity
UNESCO is mandated "to promote the free flow of ideas by word and image". The respect for and recognition of the diversity of cultures and the freedom of cultural expression should be at the core of national, regional and international policies. Diversity of cultures and cultural/ creative industries are an essential factor of sustainable development and unity.
UNESCO Bangkok is striving to ensure that diversity and the freedom of contemporary creation is encouraged amongst all cultures in the Asia-Pacific region. There are countless benefits that come with the development opportunities from booming creative industries. An economy thrives when when local markets in creative industries are strengthened and access to international markets is granted.
UNESCO regards creativity as a major component not only of spiritual life, but also of the material and economic life of persons and populations.
To deal effectively with governmental authorities and members of civil society alike, the Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions was adopted in 2005, and partnerships are established in the framework of the Global Alliance for Cultural Diversity.
UNESCO supports creative industries by encouraging collaborative efforts between public and private actors, training activities and cultural fairs, festivals and shows at national, sub-regional and regional levels.
Creativity
Arts in Education - Established to review and promote the current status and role of arts within basic education in the Asia Pacific region.
Cultural Industries in Asia and the Pacific - Aims to raise awareness of the potential of cultural industries, and to stimulate their growth in the region.
The 2005 Convention on the promotion and protection of the diversity of cultural expressions - Aims to reinforce commitment to the implementation of the convention
Award of Excellence for Handicraft Programme - Established to create standards of quality and to enhance international market awareness of handicrafts.
Culture project archive
• Asia-Pacific Performing Arts Network (APPAN) - Preservation of tradition and creativity from traditional resources through awareness raising, conservation of traditional forms, and capacity building among youth.