Big success for the International Network for Cultural Diversity

November 2003 -

Unesco's Intangible Cultural Heritage Treaty means a big step forward for the International Network for Cultural Diversity (INCD).

Unesco decided that a legal instrument must be drawn up with which countries can protect their local artistry. The elimination of trade barriers between countries opens the way for a cultural bombardment from economically dominant states. An international agreement with a legal basis must enable governments to continue to favour vulnerable local cultural initiatives. Director-general Matsuura has agreed to discuss this with the World Trade Organisation and the World Intellectual Property Organisation.

This decision represents a big success for the INCD. Since its establishment this organisation has been attempting to get such a legal instrument. The success was celebrated during the annual meeting from 13 to 15 October in Croatia. This conference preceded the sixth ministerial meeting of the International Network for Cultural Policy (INCP), which was attended by Ministers and Ministers of State from 53 countries.