France and South Korea Unveil 15-Point ‘Lumière Declaration’ on the Future of Global Cinema

France and South Korea have adopted the ‘Lumière Declaration on the Future of Cinema and Moving Images’ at the Lumière Summit held in Saint-Paul-de-Vence. The declaration outlines 15 principles emphasizing that moving images should remain centered on human creativity, serve as an aid to AI, and honor the audience. It also underscores the need for international cooperation and investment to support movie theaters, visual heritage, image literacy, and sustainable development.

The declaration was ratified on Monday at the Lumière Summit by leaders and representatives from various countries, international organizations, and key figures from the film, television, and gaming industries, as well as creators, festivals, and cultural institutions. Co-chaired by the presidents of France and South Korea, the summit’s declaration presents these 15 principles while leaving the door open for additional endorsements.

According to the declaration, “We are here laying the foundation for the multilateralism of moving images.” This initiative is introduced 200 years after the first photograph was taken and 130 years after the Lumière brothers’ inaugural public screening of the cinematograph. It is positioned as a new beginning. The declaration recognizes moving images as “a medium of emotion, memory, and knowledge, as well as a shared asset for personal liberation and collective transformation.”

The declaration also reflects principles concerning creative freedom and creators’ working environments. It highlights the need for an international network of solidarity among creators who face political, economic, or social pressures. Additionally, it describes the economy and co-creation as “powerful engines of economic growth.”