Creative Economy: A Feasible Development Option

IX. In the aftermath of the crisis, thefirmness of the market for creative products isa sign that many people in the world are eagerfor culture, social events, entertainment andleisure. They are devoting a higher share oftheir income to memorable life experiencesthat are associated with status, style, brandsand differentiation; this phenomenon, a symbolof the way of life in much of contemporarysociety, is rooted in the creative economy.Evidence suggests that even during the globalrecession people continued to go to cinemasand museums, listen to music, watch videosand TV shows, play video games, etc. Even intimes of crisis, creative products continue tothrive as an integral part of our lives. Thisexplains why some creative sectors appearmore resilient to economic downturns andcan contribute to a more sustainable andinclusive economic recovery.X. Each country is different, eachmarket is special and each creative product hasits specific touch and splendour. Nonetheless,every country might be able to identify keycreative industries that have not yet beenexploited to their full potential so as to reapdevelopmental benefits. There is no one-sizefits-allprescription; each country should formulatea feasible strategy to foster its creativeeconomy, based on its own strengths, weaknessand realities. The time for action is now.Ten Key MessagesCREATIVE ECONOMY REPORT 2010xxv