World Day for Cultural Diversity is to continue working towards achieving the four goals from the UNESCO Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions
Vidhika Kohli
World Day for Cultural Diversity, observed annually on May 21 since 2002, is a global event sanctioned by UNESCO which focuses in on not only the importance of culture, intercultural dialogue, heritage and diversity but also on the importance of culture from the perspective of development and sustainability. As described by UNESCO, “Cultural Diversity is a defining characteristic of humanity.”
From the way we talk, to our mannerisms, to our beliefs and choices and the way we interpret and see the world, culture places its influence on almost every part of our day-to-day lives.
And now, with the advent of globalization and the vast interconnectivity that exists between different nations and cultures, the need for intercultural dialogue and the acknowledgement and appreciation of cultural diversity is more of a necessity than ever before.
UNESCO data reveals that almost 89% of current conflicts around the world have been a result of ‘low intercultural dialogue’ which further emphasizes the need for cooperation, strengthening intercultural dialogue and the acknowledgement and celebration of cultural diversity and heritage for the achievement of peace and development.
Culture is also recognized for its significance on our path towards fulfilling the global agenda of 2030 for Sustainable Development considering how culture effects- everything- from the social aspects of our lives to the economic, consumptive and environmental focused parts of our lives.
Moreover, according to UNESCO data, the Cultural and Creative Sector is one of the most impactful sectors due to its contribution to development on a global scale and accounts for more than 48 million jobs worldwide, comprising 6.2% of all existing employment and 3.1% of GDP while also being the sector that employs and provides opportunities to the largest number of youth under the age of 30, but it is, simultaneously, a sector which does not receive as much attention in terms of public policies and international cooperation, hence, reminding us of the relevance and need to focus on culture and diversity especially with reference to development and for the need to focus more on culture and its related industries.
The Theme for World Day for Cultural Diversity this year is to continue working towards achieving the four goals from the UNESCO Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions which was adopted on 20 October 2005.
The goals highlighted are:
Supporting sustainable systems of governance for culture.
Achieving a balanced flow of cultural goods and services and increase mobility of artists and cultural professionals.
Integrating culture in sustainable development frameworks.
Promoting human rights and fundamental freedoms.
Amongst the things UNESCO has done for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development since its advent are the Global Report for Re|Shaping Policies for Creativity, the Tracker Culture and Public Policy, RESILIART Artists and Creativity beyond Crisis, e-platform on intercultural dialogue, Diversity of Cultural Expressions, Creative Cities Network, and the International Decade for the Rapprochement of Cultures (2013-2022).
But what can we do for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development?
‘Do one thing for Diversity and Inclusion’ was a campaign launched by the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) in partnership with UNESCO and a wide coalition of partners which includes a list of things you can do to celebrate World Day for Cultural Diversity including:
Visiting a museum or art exhibit dedicated to other cultures.
Renting a movie or reading a book from a culture, country or religion different from your own.
Reading about great thinkers from a culture other than your own.
Visiting a place of worship other than your own and participating in the celebration.
Learn about traditional celebrations of other cultures.
Share your culture with the world on social media and learn about other cultures as well.
The list encourages people to participate, join the discussion and to think of and take part in one of thousands of different things that can be done as a part of the celebration.
As we observe World Day for Cultural Diversity this year let us take a moment to appreciate the cultures around us and appreciate the beauty that lies in diversity, share in the celebration with someone else, and join the global conversation for a more sustainable world supported by its cultures.
