The BRICS Culture Working Group (CWG) meetings held in 2026 under India’s BRICS presidency have deliberated on the challenges of strengthening cultural cooperation, protecting cultural heritage, and addressing the ethical use of artificial intelligence (AI) in a rapidly changing digital environment. Union Culture and Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat shared the key findings of these meetings in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha on Thursday.
This year’s meetings primarily focused on four key areas—cultural cooperation, copyright and ethical AI in the creative economy, protection of cultural heritage, and repatriation of cultural property. Emphasizing the need to protect the rights of artists, creators, and cultural professionals in the digital age, member countries emphasized the need to strengthen the intellectual property framework and ensure fair remuneration for creators.
Second meeting held in Varanasi and discussion on UNESCO nominations
The first virtual meeting in the series of meetings was organized by the Ministry of Culture, chaired by Secretary Vivek Aggarwal. Representatives from Russia, South Africa, Ethiopia, Indonesia, the UAE, Iran, China, and Brazil participated. The second meeting, held on June 5 in Varanasi, discussed cultural heritage conservation, enhanced institutional cooperation, and joint nominations under UNESCO’s World Heritage and Intangible Cultural Heritage programs.
Theme for 2026 and India’s Role The theme of India’s BRICS Chairship for 2026 is “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation, and Sustainability.” The meetings also discussed the role of traditional knowledge and culture in combating climate change and promoting sustainable development. Currently, BRICS brings together 11 major emerging markets and developing countries, serving as a strong vehicle for mutual cooperation on global and regional issues.