Context:
Recently, UNESCO recognized Kozhikode as the ‘City of Literature’ under the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN).
Relevance:
GS I: Culture
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
