Cultural Diversity and Globalization

Cultural Diversity and Globalization

Cultural Diversity and Globalization

Cultural diversity is a product of the vast range of human experiences and achievements. It is a broad concept based on the connections between people through shared history, tradition and language. Our diversity is also a reflection of our values such as freedom of expression, pluralism of ideas, effective participation of people, and choice. Fostering cultural policies in a global environment to support cultural diversity includes:

· Ensuring that all cultures have the means to express their voices and opinions in a changing world;

· Achieving a balance between participating fully in the global environment while nurturing

national and local identities; and

· Ensuring the fair and equitable sharing of the opportunities and benefits for all. As such, cultural diversity is one of the pillars of sustainable development; it has an impact on the very identity of peoples and societies, democracy as an expression of freedom and public access to creative works, especially those from their country or region. It creates the necessary conditions for dialogue between different cultures and also allows for the mutual enrichment of cultures. Respect for cultural diversity and civilizations also helps promote a culture of

peace. That is why cultural and audiovisual works are not like other kinds of commodities.