Cultural initiatives can make a unique contribution to sustainable development by prioritizing people-centered and culturally sensitive approaches that result in effective development in fields ranging from climate policy to peace and security.
The relationship between culture and development has never been more important than it is today.
For many countries including France, Greece, Italy, India, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates the cultural and creative sectors have been put at the heart of post-COVID recovery plans. Ministers of culture from the Group of 20 leading economies called for the full recognition of culture and creative economy in development processes and the African Union declared 2021 to be the African Year of Arts, Culture and Heritage. Culture and creativity contribute significantly to the global economy, representing 3.1% of the global gross domestic product and accounting for 6.2% of global employment.
About the authors
Ian Thomas
Ian Thomas is the head of arts research and insights at the British Council, leading the council’s global arts evidence, insights, and learning work across its global arts programs. A previous international visiting fellow at the Centre for Public Diplomacy at the University of Southern California, he has worked in previous roles at Arts Council England and Telford and Wrekin Council. Thomas is also a fellow of the Royal Society of Arts.
Nikki Locke
Nikki Locke is the senior relationship manager for Culture Responds, supporting the British Council’s work in arts and culture for sustainable development. She brings over 15 years of experience developing strategies and delivering programs in the United Kingdom and internationally, which enhance the role and value of culture across society in a people-centered, inclusive, and sustainable way. Locke led Cultural Heritage for Inclusive Growth, an action research initiative exploring ways in which community cultural heritage can bring prosperity and well-being to local life.
