Introduction to the Project – Since 2008

Arts can be instrumental in shaping the tone and nature of intercultural relations. It provides, on the one hand, a medium through which cultural heritage and identity can be experienced and interpreted. On the other hand, it can create a unique space for artists, audiences, and other stakeholders in cultural management to come together on a neutral platform.

Despite this influence, the use of arts to raise awareness of different cultures, promote social cohesion, and strengthen intercultural relations, is the subject of little research and analysis, and is consistently undervalued. The Institute for Cultural Diplomacy has therefore created the program "Arts as Cultural Diplomacy" project to bridge this gap and provide a platform for interdisciplinary discussion and research on these issues by stakeholders from the artistic field, civil society, politics, diplomacy, and academia. The program conducts activity that explores the transformative role art can play in society, and therefore highlight future possibilities for its constructive use by artists, civil society organizations, and government actors.

The "Arts as Cultural Diplomacy" project holds regular academic lectures, panel discussions, and conferences on themes related to the program goals. These events feature expert speakers from the artistic sector, politics, diplomacy, civil society, and academia, ensuring an interdisciplinary analysis of the issues under discussion.

The “Arts as Cultural Diplomacy” project works also to raise awareness of the transformative power of the arts, and supports academic research and analysis with the same aims. Research is conducted regularly by ICD staff, members of our international network, ICD Advisory Board members, and other partners. Some of this research is then published online through the ICD website and, where appropriate, presented at our academic conferences.