A new development paradigm is emerging that links the economy and
culture, embracing economic, cultural, technological and social aspects
of development at both the macro and micro levels. Central to the new
paradigm is the fact that creativity, knowledge and access to information
are increasingly recognized as powerful engines driving economic
growth and promoting development in a globalizing world.
The emerging creative economy has become a leading component of
economic growth, employment, trade and innovation, and social
cohesion in most advanced economies. Unfortunately, however, the
large majority of developing countries are not yet able to harness their
creative capacity for development. This is a reflection of weaknesses
both in domestic policy and in the business environment, and global
systemic biases. Nevertheless, the creative economy offers to developing
countries a feasible option and new opportunities to leapfrog into
emerging high-growth areas of the world economy.
This report presents an updated perspective of the United Nations
as a whole on this exciting new topic. It provides empirical evidence
that the creative industries are among the most dynamic emerging sectors
in world trade. It also shows that the interface among creativity,
culture, economics and technology, as expressed in the ability to create
and circulate intellectual capital, has the potential to generate
income, jobs and export earnings while at the same time contributing
to social inclusion, cultural diversity and human development. This
report addresses the challenge of assessing the creative economy with
a view to informed policy-making by outlining the conceptual, institutional
and policy frameworks in which this economy can flourish.