[A2k] It keeps growing: 45 countries have ratified the convention on the diversity of cultural expressions

[Manon Ress]

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The Convention on the Diversity of Cultural Expressions:

quote:
...establishes internationally the recognition of the sovereign right
for States and Governments to draw up and implement cultural policies
allowing the development of strong cultural sectors which may
contribute to a genuine cultural diversity nationally and
internationally. It further emphasizes the importance of overture to
other world cultures, in the same manner as it reaffirms the links
binding culture, development and dialogue, and creates an innovative
platform for international cooperation.

     * It recognizes the distinctive nature of cultural goods and
services as transmitters of value, identity, and meaning that
transcend their commercial dimension. Therefore, as soon as it takes
effect, it will become possible to use it as a reference instrument
for those States undergoing pressures to liberalize their cultural
sectors, be it at the World Trade Organization (WTO) or during
bilateral or multilateral negotiations.
end of quote


The Convention on the Diversity of Cultural Expressions will enter
into force three months after the registering date of the thirtieth
ratification instrument. In order for the first Conference of the
Parties to meet as quickly as possible, that is within the next
UNESCO General Conference as soon as Fall 2007, the thirtieth
ratification instrument should be registered on June 30, 2007 at the
latest, thus allowing the Convention to become effective on September
30.

Well, it looks as if the Convention on the Diversity of Cultural
Expressions will come into effect on March 18, 2007.

Suivi de la ratification de la Convention de l'UNESCO  (45 countries
now):
http://www.mcc.gouv.qc.ca/diversite-culturelle/eng/

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Manon Anne Ress
manon.ress@keionline.org,
www.cptech.org

Consumer Project on Technology
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