Transformative potential of culture

The Culture Working Group seeks to promote discussions and to implement actions that take advantage of the transformative potential of culture in society, highlighting its impact on the economy, sustainable and inclusive development, in addition to fostering a culture of peace and harmony among peoples.

The WG debates topics such as cultural diversity and inclusion; culture, digital environment and copyright; culture and sustainable economic development; preservation, safeguarding and promotion of cultural heritage.

Chaired by the Ministry of Culture (MinC), the Culture WG has representatives from 30 delegations among G20 members, countries and invited international organizations.

The four thematic axes of the WG are: Cultural Diversity and Social Inclusion; Copyright and Digital Environment; Creative Economy and Sustainable Development and Preservation, Safeguarding and Promotion of Cultural Heritage and Memory.

History

Since 2020, G20 countries have been striving to integrate and strengthen culture in international relations, recognizing its transformative role in promoting sustainable and inclusive development. This movement was institutionalized in 2021, marking an ongoing commitment of respect and cooperation between nations.

The significant advances began during Saudi Arabia's presidency in 2020 and were consolidated at the first G20 ministerial meeting on culture, held in Rome, Italy, in 2021. Since then, the presidencies of Indonesia and India have continued to promote the institutionalization of cultural work in the G20.

In 2023, in Varanasi, India, the ministers of Culture approved terms of reference that highlight the need for structured dialogues between member countries. These terms seek to reduce disparities between the global North and South, reaffirming culture as an inclusive and essential value for countries' development strategies.

The inclusion of culture in G20 policies not only promotes sustainability, but also strengthens ties between peoples, building a solid foundation for a more cooperative and harmonious future.