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"On the 18th of March 2007, the Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions entered into force. This key legal instrument thus brings to completion the standard-setting structure established by UNESCO for the purpose of preserving the myriad forms in which cultural diversity expresses itself.

This convention is the first legal instrument to give recognition to the distinctive nature of cultural activities, goods and services as vehicles of identity, values and meaning. It therefore recognizes that States have the right to formulate and implement policies that encourage equitable access to all cultural expressions of the world, and, in so doing, necessarily promotes openness to those expressions of other cultures. For cultural diversity is based on two inextricable processes: one internal and the other external. For this reason, the signatories of the convention pledge to facilitate cultural exchanges both within their borders and with other countries – and particularly developing countries – by granting appropriate treatment to their artists, professionals and practitioners as well as to their cultural goods and services. Moreover, each signatory State recognizes the fundamental role of civil society and commits itself to encouraging its active participation.

The responsibility for the implementation of this convention lies with its States Parties. In this context, an important aspect of its work will be devoted to international cooperation and partnerships between the public and private sectors.

It is hoped that through constructive dialogue, States Parties will be able to create a favourable environment for the development of creative industries throughout the world, which, as we know, are not only the principal contemporary vehicles of cultural expressions but also generate income and employment while contributing to social cohesion."

• Publication Date : 19-03-2007