The information and communication
technologies revolution has led to an unprecedented flow of ideas and
knowledge throughout the world. For Québec, this poses a challenge to the
permanence of French as an international language and to the vitality of
culture and arts. The vigour and growth of many artistic groups and cultural
businesses are strongly dependent on their ability to remain active in
foreign markets. After significant breakthroughs in the United States and
Europe, access to markets has narrowed. New border regulations occasionally
hamper the coordination of foreign travel and performances. Guidelines
governing the issuance of visas and other permits are becoming stricter and
budgetary constraints are mounting, adding new barriers that excellence and
innovation cannot always easily overcome. Additionally, various aspects of
culture are becoming the focus of an increasing number of international
instruments.
In the areas of identity and culture, two priorities will
be given special attention:
Priority
Support the worldwide promotion and recognition of the
French language:
Key Initiatives
- Foster international recognition of Québec’s
linguistic expertise. Support the worldwide development of French
language education;
- Take part in the workgroups put in place at the World
Summit on the Information Society and in the new Internet Governance
Forum, with the aim of monitoring questions related to linguistic
diversity;
- Participate in the work of the International
Organization for Standardization (ISO) regarding the use of French in
information technologies.
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Priority
Develop planning and organizational expertise and
instruments to better market Québec’s cultural events and products abroad:
Key Initiatives
- Develop statistical indicators for the purpose of
tracking trends in Québec’s international cultural presence;
- In consultation with artistic and cultural
communities, implement strategies for planning the deployment of
Québec’s cultural activities based on the world’s most promising
geo-cultural poles;
- Establish a system of international operators and
mandataries, particularly in the performing arts, aimed at creating a
higher profile for artistic and cultural organizations and businesses in
leading international fairs, festivals and events;
- Financially support the development of international
marketing expertise required to increase the circulation of artists,
artistic groups, and cultural businesses outside Québec, particularly in
the United States;
- Increase support for translation, particularly into
English and Spanish;
- Establish a collaborative approach for hosting
artists and cultural groups based on reciprocity.
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