Pandemic destroys ten million jobs
According to Unesco estimates, around ten million jobs in the cultural and creative industries worldwide fell victim to the pandemic in 2020 alone. The report "Re|Shaping policies for creativity" analyzes the global cultural policy trends of recent years.
According to figures from the World Cultural Organization, the industry suffered revenue losses of between 20 and 40 percent in the countries surveyed in 2020. The pandemic has also made it clear how inadequately cultural workers are protected. Their working conditions need to be improved. In addition to a minimum wage, the authors of the study propose the introduction of pension and health insurance systems for freelancers.
Unesco also sees a need for action when it comes to gender equality. According to the latest figures, only around a third of all national art prizes worldwide are awarded to women. They are still underrepresented in leadership positions in particular. In order to address this shortcoming, the authors of the study suggest linking public funding for art and culture to gender equality measures.
