Cultural expressions

Cultural expressions are creative manifestations of the cultural identities of their authors. They are treated in the international legal system in terms of cultural rights, intellectual property law and international trade. The objective of the 2005 Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions is, as its title indicates, to protect and promote the diversity of cultural expressions. The achievement of such objectives requires respect for all cultures, the reaffirmation of the cultural sovereignty of states, the recognition of the dual nature of cultural goods and services (as having both economic and cultural value), and the rebalancing of cultural exchanges through the strengthening of international cooperation and solidarity measures. The concept of cultural expression is central to the 2005 Convention, which provides a definition:Cultural expressions are those expressions which result from the creativity of individuals, groups and societies, and which have a cultural content.The definition of cultural expression emphasizes content over the means and modes of cultural expression. It can be read in conjunction with two other definitions, that of cultural content and that of cultural activities, goods and services. It can be read in conjunction with two other definitions, that of cultural content and that of cultural activities, goods and services:Cultural content refers to the symbolic meaning, artistic dimension and cultural values that originate from or express cultural identities. Cultural activities, goods and services refers to those activities, goods and services that, when considered from the point of view of their specific quality, use or purpose, embody or convey cultural expressions, irrespective of the commercial value they may have. Cultural activities may be an end in themselves, or they may contribute to the production of cultural goods and services.Thus, expressions are cultural to the extent that they carry meaning, value and identity and can be conveyed, expressed, through cultural activities, goods or services.