Overview

The Forum on Cultural Diplomacy at the United Nations 2027 will bring together diplomats, political leaders, academics and civil society leaders at the United Nations Headquarters in Vienna for three days of dialogue on the role of cultural diplomacy in strengthening international cooperation. Under the theme “Bridging Cultures, Strengthening Diplomacy, Shaping Peace,” the Forum will examine how dialogue across cultures, societies and nations can contribute to mutual understanding, effective diplomacy and peaceful international relations at a time of growing geopolitical tensions and global uncertainty.

Through keynote addresses, high-level discussions and diplomatic roundtables, the Forum will explore the contribution of cultural diplomacy to multilateralism, conflict prevention and peacebuilding, while addressing the wider political, economic and social challenges shaping international relations. Particular attention will be given to strengthening cooperation between governments, international organisations, the diplomatic community, civil society and academia, and to developing practical approaches through which cultural diplomacy can support dialogue where traditional diplomatic channels face increasing difficulties. Vienna, as one of the principal centres of multilateral diplomacy and home to the United Nations and numerous international organisations, provides a fitting setting for advancing this global dialogue.

Locations

Located in Vienna, the Forum will be hosted at the United Nations Vienna International Centre, alongside a selection of significant political, historic and cultural venues across the city, reflecting Vienna’s unique role as a centre of international diplomacy, culture and dialogue.

Speakers & Delegates

Speakers and delegates during the conference will include leading politicians, diplomats, and academics. These speakers will include a large number of individuals from the ICD Advisory Board. To learn more about the ICD Advisory Board, please click here.

Participants »

Participation in the conference is open to governmental & diplomatic officials, academics, civil society practitioners, private sector representatives and young professionals.

If you would like to reserve a position and participate in the forum, please click on the link below and fill out the online application form:

Participant Papers »

The ICD Academy for Cultural Diplomacy encourages academic research and analysis of issues related to the goals of the Forum and would therefore like to welcome participants to submit a paper they would like to be considered for delivery at the Forum. Following the conference, the papers will be included in the proposal document that will be issued and sent to all governments and leaders of the international community.