The Coalition for the Diversity of Cultural Expressions welcomes the adoption of the joint declaration on cultural diversity and the digital space

MONTREAL, April 18, 2018 /CNW Telbec/ - The Coalition for the Diversity of Cultural Expressions (CDCE) welcomes the joint statement by the governments of Canada and the French Republic on cultural diversity and the digital space.

According to the CDCE's co-president, Bill Skolnik, "the signal sent by Canada and France is very important; at a time where platforms and their recommendation tools do not promote a real diversity of cultural expressions". The declaration affirms that states, digital platforms and civil society must pursue common goals to promote the diversity of cultural expressions online. "We are pleased to see that the French and Canadian governments have heard the main concerns of the cultural community. We are eager to find out more about the impact of this statement," adds Bill Skolnik.

In addition, while Canada is engaged in many trade negotiations, the assertion of the principles supporting UNESCO's Convention for the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions, adopted in 2005, is reassuring for the actors of the sector. The text of the Convention emphasizes the sovereign right of states to adopt measures and policies to protect and promote the diversity of cultural expressions on their territory. It is this right that is invoked to exempt culture from trade agreements, an exemption that is still benefited in North America.

As part of its efforts to maximize the participation of civil society, the Canadian government can count on the contribution of the CDCE to identify initiatives that promote the diversity of cultural expressions online.

About the Coalition for the Diversity of Cultural Expressions

Founded in 1998, the Coalition for the Diversity of Cultural Expressions is a pan-Canadian organization with 29 associations representing the entire cultural chain, from creation to distribution, in the book, film, television, new Medias, music and performing arts sectors.

Concerned by the economic health of cultural industries as well as by the vitality of cultural creation, the association is particularly interested in the treatment of culture in trade treaties and the impact of the digital environment on the diversity of cultural expressions.

SOURCE The Coalition for the Diversity of Cultural Expressions (CDCE)

Bill Skolnik, Co-president, 416.482.3815; Nathalie Guay, General Coordinator, 514-277-2666