The competition for influence is getting ever fiercer with both friendly rivals and hostile competitors investing in and innovating how they build trust and attractiveness internationally.
The aims of cultural relations, as drivers of international development, peacebuilding, and bridges of communication during difficult times in international relations, are more important than ever.
But what cultural relations approaches are countries implementing? What policies, institutions and activities are in play?
British Council commissioned ICR Research to undertake research focusing on understanding the current status and competitive space of cultural relations and soft power. This included how the UK compares to analogues in each country of operation in terms of foreign ministry activities, educational and cultural institutions as well as international broadcasting operations.
This new report based on their research considers the soft power and cultural relations policies, approaches and institutions of Brazil, China, France, Germany, India, Japan, Qatar, Russia, South Korea, Turkey, UAE, UK, USA and the EU.