London UNESCO City of Music

About the Designation

UNESCO Creative Cities Network

The UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) is a branch of UNESCO, launched in 2004, focused on "...strengthen[ing] cooperation with and among cities that have recognized creativity as a strategic factor of sustainable development as regards economic, social, cultural and environmental aspects." There are currently 295 creative cities across seven creative fields (Craft & Folk Art, Design, Film, Gastronomy, Literature, Media Arts, and Music). The UNESCO Creative Cities Network aims to:
 

• strengthen international cooperation between cities that have recognized creativity as a strategic factor of their sustainable development;

• stimulate and enhance initiatives led by member cities to make creativity an essential component of urban development, notably through partnerships involving the public and private sectors and civil society.

• strengthen the creation, production, distribution and dissemination of cultural activities, goods and services;

• develop hubs of creativity and innovation and broaden opportunities for creators and professionals in the cultural sector;

• improve access to and participation in cultural life as well as the enjoyment of cultural goods and services, notably for marginalized or vulnerable groups and individuals;

• fully integrate culture and creativity into local development strategies and plans.

The objectives of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network are implemented both at the level of the member cities and at the international level, notably through the following areas of action:
 

• sharing experiences, knowledge and best practices;

• pilot projects, partnerships and initiatives associating the public and private sectors, and civil society;

• professional and artistic exchange programs and networks;

• studies, research and evaluations on the experience of the Creative Cities;

• policies and measures for sustainable urban development;

• communication and awareness raising activities.