Impact of the pandemic on global creative industries

In the dynamic world of creative industries, the Global Creative Economy Council (GCEC) is at the forefront of discussions and policy-making. Appointed on August 15, 2023, the chairperson of the GCEC, Ajay Thakur, leads the council in its mission to shape the future of the creative sector.

The council has been actively involved in various discussions, including the co-location of the creative industries with other industrial strategy priority sectors. This strategic move aims to foster a more integrated and robust creative economy.

One of the key topics under discussion is the Creative PEC's independent research and policy recommendations for the UK's creative industries. The council is providing valuable insights to help shape the future of these industries, ensuring they remain vibrant and innovative.

The Creative Industries Sector Plan has also been a focus of the council's discussions. A summary of key sector-wide announcements from this plan has been provided, offering a comprehensive overview of the council's vision for the creative industries.

Professor Dave O'Brien, Professor of Cultural and Creative Industries at the University of Manchester, has been an active participant in these discussions. His expertise adds a valuable academic perspective to the council's work.

The council has also been engaging in conversations between the Global North and South, sharing experiences and insights from various parts of the world. Stories from Edna dos Santos-Duisenberg in Brazil, George Gachara in East Africa, and Laura Callanan in the United States have been shared, providing a global perspective on the creative sector.

The council has not shied away from addressing the challenges facing the creative industries. The report titled "The Equity Gap in Britain's Creative Industries" has been a topic of discussion, highlighting the need for equity and inclusion in these industries.

The importance of higher education to the arts, culture, and heritage sectors has also been a focus of the council's discussions. The council believes that investing in education is crucial for the continued growth and success of the creative industries.

The council has also addressed the impact of the COVID-19 crisis on the creative sector. Through a blog series, the council has discussed experiences from various parts of the world during the pandemic, providing valuable insights into the challenges faced and strategies for recovery.

Other topics under discussion include the responsibility of AI in shaping culture, the dangers of dismissing or discarding data in the arts, and the importance of accredited qualifications in journalism. The council is also analysing the UK Government's 2025 Spending Review for its implications on the creative industries.

In a recent blog, Marta Foresti, the new chair of the GCEC, emphasised the value of international cooperation. As the creative industries become increasingly global, the council believes that collaboration and shared learning are key to success.

The council's discussions also extend to the opportunities and risks of relying on tourism, as explored by Eduardo Saravia in the Maldives. The council is committed to helping the creative industries navigate these challenges and thrive in the global economy.

In conclusion, the Global Creative Economy Council is at the heart of discussions and policy-making in the creative industries. With a focus on research, policy recommendations, and international cooperation, the council is working to shape a brighter future for the creative sector.