The
time for the second interactive session has come. We will discuss a
topic that we already touched upon in many ways, namely: whether it is justified and in fact doable to regulate for the protection and promotion of cultural diversity? These
questions are asked against the background of a globalized media
landscape, where we observe the emergence and use of multiple platforms
and channels for expression and communication.
Yet,
it could be argued that many voices have been marginalized in this
environment and local cultures, especially in developing countries, are
increasingly lost or (mis)appropriated by powerful globally positioned
media companies. On the other hand, one could argue that digital media
could make the expression and distribution of such local voices possible
and strengthen their cultural value and the identity of the communities
and peoples creating them.
It
is certain that the picture to be painted is complex and not one of
black and white. This makes the discussion particularly interesting and
leaves the outcome open. The winning party will be ultimately the one
with better structured and presented arguments.
The rules of the game remain the same.
You
have however the advantage that you already heard the presentations of
your colleagues during the first interactive session, as well as my
comments on them.
The reading materials are few. They encompass basically the texts from the last session.
Those
texts may have a slight bias towards arguments against cultural
diversity regulation. Nonetheless, the other party arguing for cultural
diversity regulation can make a strong case too. The lack of
flexibilities within the WTO regime and the total disregard of cultural
concerns are certainly the starting point there. The proliferation of
mainstream content and homogenization of media outlets possibly another
good point to make. Also, the text of the Convention itself and other
short documents made available on the thematic page of UNESCO on culture can help you win the case.
Optional reading with some good data is a chapter from the UNESCO World Report.
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