OAFP 9025 - Cultural Diplomacy and soft power in international relations

This objective of this course is to provide students with analytical tools to comprehend cultural diplomacy from conceptual, historical and empirical perspectives. We will examine how museums, archaeology and cultural heritage policies as well as cultural industries (cinema, music, art fairs, etc.) are used as means of diplomacy, influence and persuasion in the frame of international relations. After considering the conceptual development of cultural diplomacy and the theory of soft power, students will explore the evolution of cultural diplomacy in a context of globalized cultural relations. Cases studies will highlight the means and objectives pursued by the emerging actors of cultural diplomacy (China, India or United Arab Emirates) and the importance of new communication channels.

Jean Gabriel LETURCQ

Enseignement électif

English

Students will be required to prepare and send in advance questions to the teacher or the external speaker. They will have to keep updated on the actuality of international cultural diplomacy reading the news and following social media.

Strong interest in international relations and culture – especially cultural heritage and museums. Interest in communication is a plus.

Autumn 2025-2026

- Le cours propose un contrôle continu. - Un exposé de groupe de quatre étudiant.e.s (20 min) sur un thème communiqué toutes les deux semaines en lien avec la séance. (40% de la note finale) The final grade will take into account : 30% group presentation on a given case study 60% written assignement (50% of which is based on an abstract/research outline to be provided by the autumn break) 10% participation in class.

Classes will take various format : group presentation and discussion, lecture by the teacher and/or intervention by an external lecturer. Active participation of the students is compulsory.