Overview

The Forum on Cultural Diplomacy at the United Nations, established in 2012, is a long-term programme dedicated to examining the role of cultural diplomacy in international relations, as applied by United Nations agencies. It brings together policymakers, diplomats, academics, and practitioners to analyse how cultural diplomacy can support dialogue, reduce tensions, and strengthen multilateral cooperation within the United Nations system and beyond.

The programme is structured around a combination of applied research and academic studies, complemented by high-level conferences and expert roundtables. These activities are designed to generate policy-relevant insights, encourage interdisciplinary exchange, and contribute to informed debate on cultural diplomacy as a tool for conflict prevention, peacebuilding, and impactful economic development.

In parallel, the Forum organises delegations and exchange initiatives that provide participants with direct exposure to institutional practice and diplomatic processes. By linking research, dialogue, and practical engagement, the programme aims to advance a more nuanced and effective use of cultural diplomacy in global affairs.