Launched in 2004, the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) aims to strengthen cooperation with and among cities that have recognised creativity as a strategic factor in sustainable development with regard to economic, social, cultural and environmental aspects.

By joining the Network, cities recognise their commitment to sharing best practices, developing partnerships that promote creativity and cultural industries, strengthening participation in cultural life and integrating culture into urban development plans.

Member cities recognise the importance of sustainable and inclusive urban development and therefore commit to increasing the contribution of culture and creativity to the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).

The UNESCO Creative Cities promote sustainable urban development, based on culture and creativity as a lever to achieve development goals. In this context, when implementing and formulating their action plan activities and programmes, cities have to demonstrate their commitment to implementing the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development at the urban level, building an inclusive approach to development that encompasses the economic, social and environmental dimensions.

Creative cities emerge as centres of experimentation that lead to innovative and successful models of sustainable development.