Unveiling the Creative City Potential of Buriram: An Analysis of Its Cultural and Creative Ecosystems

Abstract

This study discusses findings from a three-month study, from October to December 2021, on the creative city potential of Buriram Province in Northeastern Thailand. Commissioned by UNESCO, this study aims to firstly, analyze the Cultural and Creative Industries ecosystem and map cultural resources by applying the Cities, Culture and Creativity (CCC) Framework in Buriram Province and secondly, offer a set of recommended interventions toward the achievement of the triple benefits of sustainable urban development, city competitiveness and social inclusion. The results show that Buriram is abundant in cultural assets that could be used as a foundation for the growth of the creative economy in the city, but it is still lacking in human capital and support infrastructure that allow the culture and creative industries to grow. Subsequently, three interventions are suggested: 1) Integrate the creative economy into development plans; 2) offer space to create, collaborate and grow; and 3) build a creative coalition.