UCLG Culture Summit in Izmir: Culture shaping the future

September 9-11, 2021, a Cultural Summit will be held in Izmir (Turkey), organized by the World Organization "United Cities and Local Governments" (UCLG). Representatives of local and regional governments, scientists, activists, key stakeholders involved in the global debate on culture and development will gather in Izmir to discuss the place of cultural policy in sustainable development.

The COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated to society the urgent need to unite cities in the field of culture. As a result, the crisis that has hit the world has shown that cultural workers need better working conditions, even despite the instability in the old days. The goal of cultural policy is becoming more global, which is why the name of the Summit is "Culture shaping the future". 

The summit will draw attention to international discussions on culture, cities and sustainable development, which are determined by the UN Agenda for the period up to 2030 and the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals).

During the Summit, the following issues will be discussed: "Culture, environment and health in the post-COVID-19 era", "Culture and the climate emergency", "Cultural Rights and Communities" in accordance with the Rome Charter of 2020, "Cultural Policy and Gender aspects", "Creative Economy and Cultural Diversity", "Cultural Heritage and Tourism", "Cultural Diplomacy", as well as "Culture: Obstacles and inequality". 

The summit will be held in a hybrid (online and offline) format.

Izmir is a city in western Turkey on the Aegean coast. It is a dynamic, fast-growing metropolis with a rich history and a large number of young people. This is a city with a unique European Mediterranean atmosphere for Turkey, where modern glass facades and wide boulevards are adjacent to traditional red tiled roofs and old mosques.  

Due to the advantages of its climate and geographical location, the city has become home to various civilizations and cultures throughout its 8,500-year history. 

There are many ancient settlements within the borders of modern Izmir, for example, Smyrna, Klazomenai, Ephesus and Pergamum. Pergamum (2014) and Ephesus (2015) are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. 

The 4,500,000 inhabitants of Izmir enjoy numerous festivals dedicated to art, culture, ecology and gastronomy, numerous museums, art centers and independent cultural events. The crystal clear Aegean Sea, accompanied by the sun and golden sandy beaches, are an important part of the cultural life of Izmir. 

More than three million tourists visit Izmir every year. They are attracted by the historical heritage, rich culture and magnificent beaches. 

Full information can be found on the website: https://www.uclg-culturesummit2021.org/

07.07.2021

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