Anant Singh, renowned film producer and social justice advocate, has been appointed to the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) newly launched Global Arts and Culture Council (GACC). The announcement was made during the Council’s inaugural meeting at the WEF Annual Meeting in Davos, Switzerland, on January 22.
The GACC, established by WEF co-founders Mrs. Hilde Schwab and Professor Klaus Schwab, aims to address the evolving global landscape as societies transition from industrial eras to more interconnected, intelligent communities. The Council seeks to leverage the transformative power of arts and culture to foster unity and prosperity in this new age.
Singh joins a distinguished group of global cultural leaders on the Council, including Academy Award-winning filmmaker Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, British Museum Chair George Osborne, world-renowned soprano and WHO Arts and Health Ambassador Renée Fleming, Serpentine Gallery Artistic Director Hans Ulrich Obrist, legendary tenor Andrea Bocelli, Kennedy Center President Deborah Rutter, musician and producer Nile Rodgers, dancer and activist Jin Xing, Chanel Global Head of Arts & Culture Yana Peel, and celebrated ballerina Misty Copeland.
Speaking about his appointment, Singh said, “Artists and the creative community around the world are the voice of the people and the custodians of humanity’s storytelling. The Global Arts and Culture Council is vitally important in a fractious world where the voices and expressions of artists need to be heard to contribute to the dialogues of the journeys of millions of people.”
Singh also highlighted the significance of the G20 Summit in South Africa later this year, stating, “The G20 Summit presents an exceptional opportunity for us to showcase our remarkable country and its people to the world.” He attended the first plenary session led by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, who addressed WEF delegates ahead of the Summit.
Today, Singh is set to participate in a panel discussion titled “An Artist’s Path Out of Injustice,” where he will reflect on his work using film to spotlight social issues, including apartheid, HIV/AIDS, and gender-based violence.
This year marks Singh’s 25th consecutive attendance at the WEF Annual Meeting, a milestone that underscores his longstanding commitment to the intersection of arts and global dialogue. He was first recognized by the WEF in 2001 when he received the prestigious Crystal Award for his contributions to social change through film.