Three New Research Reports about the Creativity Sector, from UNESCO, the UN, and the EU

After decades of reports, conventions, statements, and commissions, a new report from UNESCO determines that women are still treated and paid unfairly, and are faced with inequitable and often harassing situations across the culture and creative sectors of UNESCO countries. This report, Gender & Creativity: progress on the precipice, special edition, released on International Women’s Day, highlights the consequences of gender inequalities for the promotion of diverse cultural expressions.

Similarly, a new two-page “At a Glance” report from the European Union Parliament, titled Women in arts and culture — Artists, not muses, finds that “women’s contributions have been disregarded in virtually every domain of activity” in the arts and culture. The pay gap in professional music can be 30% lower for women. This short report proposes solutions.

Finally, 2021 is the United Nations International Year of Creative Economy for Sustainable Development. This 92-page report from Creativity Culture & Capital highlights many examples of success around the world in arts projects working well toward the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, especially Goal #8: “Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all.”