Overview
The UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) was established in 2004 to foster international cooperation among cities that use culture and creativity as a driver for sustainable urban development. UCCN serves as an effective exchange platform for cities, facilitating artistic and professional mobility while sharing successful practices among cities worldwide. Its mission which aims for creativity to impact SDGs is gradually permeating cities’ action plans and MMRs. However, Creative Cities’ connections are geographically unbalanced with a bias towards the Global North, and Creative Cities’ frequently prioritize economic over social or environmental goals which raises questions about alignment with UNESCO priorities. UNESCO’s strategic direction for the Network has been flexible, and there is room for enhanced guidance specific to each creative field. Its management standards and internal regulations have so far been adequate for facilitating its role as a laboratory for learning but need to be updated and expanded in view of the Network’s rapid growth.