Thursday, 21 May, 17.30-19.00 (CET), event in Berlin and via Zoom | International Theatre Institute (ITI) Germany, German Commission for UNESCO (DUK), and IGBK

 Click here to register for free participation on-site or via Zoom (registration deadline: 20 May 2026)

Address: Mediathek of the International Theatre Institute (ITI) Germany, Kunstquartier Bethanien, Mariannenplatz 2, 10997 Berlin

© UNESCO/Cover photo: Diana Ejaita

"Cultural Diversity in Motion: Preferential Treatment & Mobility" – Analysis of the UNESCO World Report "Re|Shaping Policies for Creativity" (2026)

What obstacles still prevent fair mobility between Germany/Europe and the Global South today? Which visa and residency barriers are particularly common in Germany—and what quick solutions could be implemented? What priorities and recommendations for action can be derived for the coming years to implement the UNESCO Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions?

On 21 May 2026, to mark UNESCO World Day for Cultural Diversity, the International Theatre Institute (ITI) Germany, the German Commission for UNESCO (DUK), and the Internationale Gesellschaft der Bildenden Künste (IGBK) invite you to the ITI Mediathek. The focus will be on the presentation of the German summary of the UNESCO World Report "Re|Shaping Policies for Creativity" (2026) as well as the topics of "preferential treatment" and "international mobility," central objectives of the 2005 UNESCO Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions.

Through inputs, a performance, and a panel discussion, experts and stakeholders from the fields of culture, politics, and academia will jointly assess what we can learn from global data and examples and what action is needed in Germany. The goal is to define common priorities for the implementation of the UNESCO Convention on the Diversity of Cultural Expressions and to strengthen networks.

The event is part of the action day "Zusammenhalt in Vielfalt".

With welcoming remarks, inputs, and contributions from Sebastian Hoffmann (touring artists / ITI), Friederike Kamm (German Commission for UNESCO), Marie Le Sourd (On the Move), María Linares (IGBK), Temitayo Oni (Spreepark Art Space), Helga Trüpel (German Commission for UNESCO), and Juliane Zellner (ITI Center Germany).

As well as an artistic performance by Nezaket Ekici (international performance artist, IGBK, and Deutscher Künstlerbund).

Information on Nezaket Ekici's performance:
"Fragments of Essence" is an excerpt from Nezaket Ekici’s performance "Essence" (since 2016) featuring new elements. In "Fragments of Essence", Ekici stands on a raised platform, like a sculpture. Attached to her costume are an axe, a meat cleaver, a spatula, and other objects: they are sharp, pointed, and potentially dangerous.
The present era, marked by wars and threats, hinders mobility. Countries are increasingly isolating themselves. We find ourselves in the midst of a global crisis.
The idea of freedom is overshadowed and restricted by increasing aggression, violence, and numerous restrictions. During the performance, Ekici refers to Article 1 of the Basic Law for the Federal Republic of Germany: "Human dignity shall be inviolable," which she articulates. Human dignity encompasses the right to shape one’s life freely and self-determinedly. This also includes freedom of movement and the opportunity to express oneself freely through art and culture.

The event will be held in German and in English. We kindly ask that you arrive on time so we can begin together.

An event organized by the International Theatre Institute (ITI) Germany, the Internationale Gesellschaft der Bildenden Künste (IGBK), and the German Commission for UNESCO in celebration of World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development 2026.

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