UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network (UCCN)

Kozhikode in Kerala was recently added to UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network (UCCN).
Further, Gwalior from Madhya Pradesh also joins the network, bringing the total new additions to 55 cities.
Kozhikode is recognized for literature; Gwalior for music.

About Kozhikode’s Literary

· Home to many of Kerala’s notable literary figures.

· Houses numerous publishing banners and libraries.

· The first Malayalam novel, “Kundalatha”, was penned in Kozhikode in 1887 by Appu Nedungadi.

· Birthplace and home to renowned writers like S K Pottekkatt, Vaikom Muhammad Basheer, Uroob, and more.

· Has contributed significantly to film and theatre over the past 50 years.

Indian Cities in the UCCN

· Kozhikode (Literature)

· Gwalior (Music)

· Varanasi (Music)

· Srinagar (Crafts and Folk Arts)

· Chennai (Music)

About UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN)

Established in 2004.
Aims to foster cooperation among cities prioritizing creativity for sustainable development.
Currently has 350 cities from over 100 countries.
Focuses on promoting cultural diversity, resilience against threats like climate change and rapid urbanization, and encourages creativity in urban solutions.

Cities in the network represent seven creative fields

Objective of the UCCN

Recognize creativity as crucial for urban development.
Facilitate partnerships between public and private sectors, along with civil society.
Aims to nurture hubs of creativity and innovation and expand opportunities for cultural professionals.
Aligns with the UN’s agenda for sustainable development.

Areas of Action for the UCCN

Annual Conference of Network Cities

Provides a platform for mayors and stakeholders of network cities to interact and strengthen ties.
Focuses on exchanging information on policies and activities of cities and promoting collaborations.
Last conference took place in Santos, Brazil.
The current year’s conference was in
The next conference is slated for July 2024 in Braga, Portugal.

AMIGOS IAS