The historic city of Bukhara has been selected to host the 19th annual conference of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) in 2027. According to the Art and Culture Development Foundation, Bukhara will become the first destination in Central Asia, the CIS, and the Organization of Turkic States to host this international event, taking over the baton from Essaouira, Morocco.

The UCCN platform currently unites 408 member cities across more than 100 countries, recognized for their active role in fostering creative industries and cultural development. Bukhara was inducted into the network in 2023 as a City of Crafts and Folk Art, building upon its inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage list back in 1993.

The initiative to bring the conference to Bukhara was purportedly introduced amid high-profile international gatherings, following sessions of the UNESCO General Conference held in Samarkand. Observers note that organizing such a massive global event will pose significant logistical and infrastructural challenges for local authorities.

According to UNESCO data, the upcoming gathering is expected to draw urban administrators, creative industry stakeholders, and international experts to discuss the advancement of the creative economy and the integration of cultural potential into urban socio-economic planning. The agenda is projected to feature high-level sessions, thematic debates, and a dedicated Mayors' Forum.

Organizers plan to schedule the conference concurrently with the second Bukhara Biennale. While proponents claim the dual events will amplify international cooperation and attract global specialists, the practical execution and economic burden of running parallel mega-events remain subject to close scrutiny.

Source: www.gazeta.uz