by the International Music Council, took place in nine African countries. The 3-years-long project was implemented with the financial support of the European Union and the technical assistance of the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (ACP), and aimed at supporting the music industry through a series of targeted actions. Advocacy The main arena for IMC advocacy is UNESCO, specifically the 1980 Recommendation concerning the Status of the Artist, the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage and the 2005 Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions. Some advocacy actions are carried out in alliance with other international organisations such as the #Culture2030Goal campaign for the inclusion of culture among the Sustainable Development Goals. International Music Day The International Music Day was initiated in 1975 by Yehudi Menuhin, former president of the IMC. It is celebrated worldwide on October 1. IMC presidents Alfons Karabauda (2019–present), Sweden Emily Achieng’ Akuno (2017–2019), Kenya Paul Dujardin (2013–2017), Belgium Frans de Ruiter (1998–2001) (2009–2013), Netherlands Richard Letts (2005–2009), Australia Kifah Fakhouri (2001–2005), Jordan Jordi Roch (1994–1997), Spain Eskil Hemberg (1992–1993), Sweden Lupwishi Mbuyamba (1988–1991), Zaire Marlos Nobre (1986–1987), Brazil Gottfried Scholz (1984–1985), Austria Barry S. Brook (1982–1983), United States Frank Callaway (1980–1981), Australia John Peter Lee Roberts (1978–1979), Canada Yehudi Menuhin (1969–1975), United States Narayana Menon (1967–1968) (1976–1977), India Vladimir Fédorov (1965–1966), France Mario Labroca (1959–1964), Italy Domingo Santa Cruz (1957–1958), Chile Steuart Wilson (1954–1956), United Kingdom Roland Manuel (1950–1953), France See also International Council for Traditional Music References External links The IMC's website International music organizations UNESCO Musical groups established in 1949