Unmasking resilience: voices of creatives in the global south amidst crisis
Voices of Creatives
Location:
Iraq, Jordan, Kenya, Lebanon, Senegal and South Africa
Client:
Consultancy, Research, Advocacy
Services:
2020
Year:
Links:
The pandemic and other localised crises impacted the creative industries severely across the world.
To deal with this unprecedented shift, the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), implemented by the German International Cooperation, commissioned us at VibeLab, to compile and interpret data about the impact of COVID-19 on the music, fashion and design sectors in Iraq, Jordan, Kenya, Lebanon, Senegal and South Africa.
In seven thriving cities, "Voices of Creatives" conducted over 600 surveys and 40 hours of interviews, reaching 130 participants. This hands-on approach, led by us at VibeLab, taps into the vibrant pulse of creative communities, illuminating their values and needs.
Overview
2020 brought unprecedented challenges, from the global pandemic to localised crises. These events have profoundly impacted the Creative and Cultural Industries (CCI), leading to significant financial losses and a decline in overall well-being and employment.
Universal Challenges: COVID-19 and Other Shocks
Events such as the Beirut explosion, economic inflation, flooding in the African Sahel, and political unrest in Iraq have compounded the challenges faced by the CCI. The impact has been felt globally, affecting both individuals and businesses.
Economic Hardships
Over 90% of business owners across cities reported severe year-over-year income loss, with a majority experiencing reductions more significant than half. This financial strain has been particularly acute for self-employed individuals.
Sector-Specific Impact: Music Industry Hit Hard
Among the sectors analysed, music has emerged as the most severely affected by the pandemic. Its resilience and recovery will be critical to the broader revival of the CCI.
Cross-Sectoral Exchange: Untapped Potential
While there is excellent potential in cross-sectoral exchange, interactions between creative professionals and stakeholders from other sectors have been limited. Advocacy, interest representation, and leveraging synergies hold promise for future growth.
Digital Transformation: Accelerated Role of Technology
The pandemic has accelerated the importance of digital technology in the CCI. Access to affordable internet service, software, hardware, and training in digital technologies and business practices is in high demand.
Imperative of Physical Spaces
Despite the rise of digital markets, physical spaces remain vital for cultural production. The pandemic and its consequences have severely impacted these spaces, risking their future.
Access to Opportunities
Small businesses and freelancers play a crucial role in the CCI. They require access to funding, training, foreign markets, and recognition and acceptance within their local communities.
Overcoming Structural Barriers: Addressing International Challenges
Travel restrictions, and structural obstacles to international trade, postage, and digital payments hinder global community-building and cooperation. These issues require strategic attention.
