Cultural Diversity: a little great example
by Chantal Gras
With cultural diversity just voted on at UNESCO (see news 21/10/05), the Belgian government gathered the press in Brussels to ponder upon its strong passed and future mobilisation. Three ministers will represent the Belgian francophone community: Marie Arena, Minister-President, Fadila Laanan, Minister of Culture and Marie Dominique Simonet, Minister of Foreign Affairs. .
In order for it to be applied, the Convention must be ratified by at least 30 countries. No date has been set, but 2010 marks the end to the cultural exemption agreed by the WTO. Meanwhile, the parliamentary majorities could change. It is possible to obtain 30 votes; one must count with the support of "significant" countries. In Belgium where all political parties have agreed among themselves, the agenda will last a year. Before the vote took place in Paris, some "poor countries" had demanded a budget to develop their "own cultural diversity". The budget could be made possible if helped "voluntarily" by the rich countries. But inside the EU some members may not ratify it. The ideas shared by the UK, Germany and some Eastern nations, are the cause of many doubts. While all this takes place, Condoleezza Rice pulls a very delicate string, saying that "the Convention could mean a delay in regards to human right". The US is using all it has, continuing with its boycott to ensure Hollywood’s revenues.
Nevertheless Fadila Laanan reminds her in a just way: "It’s not about opposing the American films that we all love, it’s about giving our directors, and those of other countries, the chance to be known! Cultural diversity translates into an enrichment of the soul." This is seen through a public policy which has launched Belgian arts to international recognition (17 films premiered in festivals, great names in the arts, actors, theatre companies, dance, rock music, and so on...), the three ministers have made clear their intention to continue with these intensive international lobbying. Marie Arena has also stated: "Every small country should be in the international scene. Belgium’s influence is considerable in this aspect: our experts a listened to, our cultural representation is reaffirmed. We shall continue to fight for our cultural diversity."
(Translated from French)
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