The EU as a Global Actor
From the Inside Out: The Internal Development of the European Union and its Future Role in an Interdependent World
(Berlin; July 7th - 10th, 2011)
Through a series of panel discussions, lectures, and debates, conference speakers will examine the issues that are currently defining the internal development of the EU. At the political level, discussions will concentrate on EU decision-making and the possible expansion of the EU. In the area of economics, speakers will explore the medium and long-term prospects of the Eurozone, the future of Europe's economies, and the recovery of the region from the global financial crisis. These two focal points will be considered alongside cultural issues, in particular the importance of immigration and integration to the future of the EU and the need for greater understanding between cultural groups. Politicians from different EU countries will outline their countries' positions on the issues outlined above, highlighting areas of agreement and areas where greater cooperation is needed.
Debate and discussion on the internal development of the EU will be balanced with analysis of the future role and responsibilities of the EU internationally. Consideration will be give to both the practice and the priorities of EU foreign policy. In terms of practice, the application of cultural diplomacy and soft power as tools in international relations will be considered in detail. Academic stakeholders and politicians will then explore EU foreign policy on climate change, peacekeeping and humanitarian intervention. Particular focus will be placed on the growing influence of global players in Asia and Latin America and the need for Europe to move towards a knowledge-based economy. Key historical relationships will be analyzed, new strategic partnerships considered, and experts will offer their views on what the EU can and should do on the international stage in the future.
Conference Locations
Based in Berlin, the conference, will be hosted at a number of important political, historic, and cultural locations across the city. The conference will be covered by journalists from the "Berlin Calendar".The "Berlin Calendar" is co-hosted by NPR and the ICD.
Conference Speakers »
Speakers during the conference will include leading figures and experts from international politics, academia, diplomacy, the private sectory, and civil society from across the world. These speakers will include a number of individuals from the ICD Advisory Board (for further information about the Advisory Board please click here).Sustainable Network »
Conference participants will become part of a growing international network of people from across the world of diverse interests and backgrounds who share a commitment to intercultural exchange. Participants will be able to remain in touch with each other through the ICD Networks.Conference Participants »
The conference is open to applications from young professionals, students and scholars, governmental and diplomatic officials, civil society practitioners, private sector representatives, journalists, and other interested stakeholders from across the world.If you would like to reserve a position, please click on the "Apply Now" link below:
Certificate of Attendance
All participants will be awarded an official certificate of attendance upon completion of the program, which provides details about the speakers and topics at the conference. Each certificate will be signed by members of the ICD's Advisory Board.
Participant Papers
The Institute for Cultural Diplomacy encourages research and progressive thought on the fields of culture, globalization, and international relations. As such, the ICD welcomes participants of the Symposium to submit relevant papers addressing topics within these fields particular to their interests and passions. Participants can submit papers written in the past for other purposes or ongoing research, or written specifically for the conference. Groups of students are also allowed to submit collaborative pieces of work.
