This large-scale event takes place from October 2-4 and is organized by the Foundation for the Development of Culture and Art of Uzbekistan (ACDF) with the support of the Republic of Indonesia, the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development UNCTAD (UN Trade and Development) and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). Among the partners of the conference are the British Council, the Asian Bank Development Institute and Westminster International University in Tashkent, the Dunyo news agency reports.
This year's conference brought together more than 2,000 creative industry leaders and figures from around the world to discuss the future of the creative economy and the impact of the latest technologies, including artificial intelligence, on this dynamically developing field. The main theme of WCCE-2024 is "Inclusive Creativity: Changing Reality". It will explore the social and economic challenges associated with the rapid development of technology and the role of creative industries in shaping a sustainable future.
The conference will host key events, including a meeting of ministers on creative economy, an exhibition of achievements of creative industries in the world and in Uzbekistan, as well as numerous seminars, workshops and practical exercises. An important event will be the opening of new art residences at the Center for Contemporary Art in Tashkent.
The WCCE Conference was first organized in 2018 in Indonesia and has since established itself as a leading international platform for discussing creative economy issues. It promotes international cooperation by emphasizing the role of creative industries in stimulating sustainable economic growth and the transition from a resource-dependent economy to a knowledge economy.
The cultural and creative industries generate almost 2.3 trillion US dollars annually, providing 3.1% of global GDP, and this figure is expected to grow to 10% by 2030. WCCE-2024 in Tashkent will be a platform for discussing how creative industries can contribute to inclusive and sustainable economic development, as well as how technologies such as artificial intelligence are changing the rules of the game in this sector.
Among the speakers of the IV World Conference on Creative Economy are leading international and local experts who are ready to share their knowledge and experience. Invited guests include such authoritative figures as Rebeca Grynspan, Secretary General of UNCTAD, HE Sheikha Al-Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Chairman of Qatar Museums and Doha Film Institute, Farida Khelfa, documentary filmmaker and former model, Dr. Mariët Westermann, CEO of Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation & Museum, as well as such famous representatives of the creative industries as The Gstaad Guy, content creator and entrepreneur, Arizona Muse, model, Aaron Rasmussen, co-founder of Masterclass, Francesca Amfitheatrof, artistic director of LVMH Watches & Jewellery, Teo Yang, founder of Teo Yang Studio, and HE Hala Badri, CEO of Dubai Culture & Arts Authority.
The conference program is rich and varied. It will include plenary sessions, panel discussions, workshops and master classes. Participants will be able not only to gain new knowledge, but also to enjoy a cultural program, including artistic performances and unique networking opportunities both on the main site and in other parts of Tashkent. An important event will be the Friends of Creative Economy forum, which will allow further discussion of the role of the creative economy in the international arena.
The conference will be interactive, so that participants will not only be able to listen to lectures and panel discussions, but also actively interact with leading experts during master classes and ideathons. One of these events will be an ideaton called "Bridging Creativity Gap - Building Inclusive Space for Creatives in Uzbekistan", which will be held on October 3 in partnership with IT Park Uzbekistan. On the last day of the conference, the Foundation for the Development of Culture and Art, together with the Agency for Youth Affairs of Uzbekistan, will organize a pitch session for young startups, where young talents will be able to present their projects.
One of the key aspects of WCCE-2024 will be CreatiVillage, a global village where creative figures from around the world will be able to present their cultures, heritage, innovations, art, fashion and cuisine. This platform will inspire innovation, the promotion of sustainable development and global cooperation.
Thus, the IV World Conference on the Creative Economy in Tashkent promises to be an important event not only for the creative industries, but also for the global economy as a whole, opening up new opportunities for the exchange of ideas, strengthening international relations and stimulating innovative development.
