A diplomatic deficit? The rise of non-state actors
With power diffusing away from states, some have described a growing ‘diplomatic deficit’. But there are opportunities for countries willing to reach out to and with non-state actors.
Cultural relations
Crossing Points: UK-Germany
Essay collection: the new British Council collection of essays, ‘Crossing Points’, has been written by eight authors for the ‘UK/Germany 2018’ season.
Building resistance to violent extremism
Violent extremism often thrives off youth marginalisation. Evidence suggests that culture, education and civic engagement can help tackle it.
Soft power today: Measuring the effects
New research has found that promoting a nation’s culture and political ideals on the global stage brings significant economic and strategic advantages.
Global cultural challenges and custodians of place: Findings from the Edinburgh international culture summit
The report from the Edinburgh International Culture Summit explores the vital issues facing today’s cultural sector and policymakers. We examine the arguments.
Culture: Building resilient communities
Research report: the Edinburgh International Culture Summit report.
Leadership in the 21st century – how global is your perspective?
As we confront growing challenges, effective leadership will matter more than ever. But what constitutes good leadership? New research points to the skills the next generation will need.
The quiet voice of cultural collaboration is the future of European friendships
British Council Chief Executive Sir Ciarán Devane introduces the findings of the British Council’s EU-UK Culture and Education Series.
'A nation stays alive when its culture stays alive'
Paul Smith, the British Council’s Country Director in Afghanistan when its offices were attacked by the Taliban, gives a personal view of why cultural protection is so vital for humanity.
Guernica: plus ça change
As the UK ratifies the Hague Convention, the importance of cultural protection is perhaps greater than it has been for decades.