Context:
Srinagar has been designated as a ‘World Craft City’ by the World Craft Council (WCC). This follows its recognition as part of the UNESCO Creative City Network (UCCN) for crafts and folk arts three years ago.
- Jaipur, Malappuram, and Mysore are the other Indian cities previously recognized as World Craft Cities.
Relevance:
GS I: History
Dimensions of the Article:
- What is World Craft Council (WCC)?
- Significance of World Craft City Recognition
- What is UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network (UCCN)?
What is World Craft Council (WCC)?
- Overview:
- The World Craft Council (WCC) is a non-profit, non-governmental organization associated with UNESCO.
- Founded in 1964, the WCC aims to promote the preservation, protection, and development of traditional crafts, fostering economic development through these crafts.
- World Craft City recognition by the WCC is a prestigious designation awarded to cities that excel in promoting and developing traditional crafts and artisanship.
- This recognition highlights a city’s dedication to preserving and promoting its unique craft heritage and supporting local artisans.
Significance of World Craft City Recognition
- Global Status:
- Recognition enhances the city’s status on a global platform, establishing it as a center of excellence for crafts.
- Economic Boost:
- The designation can stimulate the local economy by attracting tourists, investors, and buyers interested in authentic crafts, thus expanding market opportunities for artisans.
- Cultural Preservation:
- It underscores the city’s commitment to preserving traditional crafts, ensuring these cultural practices are transmitted to future generations.
- Support for Artisans:
- Often leads to increased support for local artisans, including funding, training, and opportunities for international collaboration and exchange.
- Innovation and Sustainability:
- Encourages innovation within the craft sector by combining traditional techniques with modern designs, fostering creativity and sustainability.
- Visibility:
- The city and its crafts gain greater visibility through international media coverage, exhibitions, and events associated with the WCC.
Criteria for Recognition
- Requirements:
- To be recognized as a World Craft City, a city typically needs to demonstrate:
- A rich tradition of crafts and a significant population of skilled artisans.
- Active promotion and development of craft traditions.
- Commitment to preserving cultural heritage and supporting sustainable practices.
- Evidence of innovation and creativity in craft practices.
- Strong community involvement and support for the craft sector.
What is UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network (UCCN)?
- Overview:
- The UCCN was established in 2004 to foster collaboration among cities that see creativity as a key element for sustainable urban development.
- Currently, it encompasses 350 cities across more than 100 countries.
- The network aims to advance UNESCO’s objectives of cultural diversity and enhance resilience to challenges like climate change, increasing inequality, and rapid urbanization.
- Purpose:
- The network leverages the creative, social, and economic potential of cultural industries.
- It promotes a culture of creativity in urban planning and solutions to urban issues.
- Benefits to Member Cities:
- Recognizes creativity as vital for urban development through partnerships with public and private sectors and civil society.
- Develops hubs of creativity and innovation, expanding opportunities for creators and cultural professionals.
- Aligns with the UN agenda of sustainable development.
- Implementation:
- Objectives are realized at both local and international levels by sharing experiences, knowledge, and best practices.
- Includes professional and artistic exchange programs, research, and evaluations on the experiences of creative cities.
The Annual Conference of Network Cities
- Purpose:
- A major event is the annual conference of mayors and stakeholders from network cities.
- It strengthens ties among creative cities globally.
- Past conferences were held in Santos, Brazil, and Istanbul. The next will be in July 2024 in Braga, Portugal.
- Membership Monitoring:
- Every four years, cities submit a Membership Monitoring Report.
- This report demonstrates commitment to the UCCN Mission Statement.
- Includes an action plan for the next four years, highlighting achievements, lessons learned, and the impact of the designation.
Indian Cities in the Network
- Notable Cities:
- Besides Kozhikode and Gwalior, cities like Varanasi (music), Srinagar (crafts and folk arts), and Chennai (music) are part of the network.
-Source: The Hindu
