Debat | Strategies for Cultural Diplomacy in Polarised Times

De voertaal is Engels

In an increasingly polarised world, institutions engaged in cultural diplomacy are facing mounting challenges. While they are expected to promote diversity and foster open debate, they are also under growing pressure from digital campaigns, political interests, and shifting societal expectations.

How can cultural actors create spaces that allow for a plurality of perspectives without being co-opted by political agendas? What role does cancel culture play – as a corrective force or as a constraint on free expression? And how can artistic freedom be preserved while fulfilling diplomatic responsibilities?

This event invites discussion on the evolving role of cultural institutions at the intersection of international cultural policy, public discourse, and an increasingly fragmented social landscape.

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Opening remarks

• Elke Kaschl Mohni, Goethe-Institut, Regional Director for North and Southwest Europe

Panel discussion

• Corina Șuteu, former Minister of Culture of Romania
• Beata Ociepka, Professor of International Relations, University of Wrocław
• Olga Brzezińska, Vice Director of Adam Mickiewicz Institute, Poland
• Julien Chiappone-Lucchesi, Directeur général de l'Institut français de Roumanie
• Hanna Klimpe, Professor of Social Media, HAW Hamburg
• Moderation: Joachim Umlauf, Director Goethe-Institut Bukarest

Organized by the Goethe-Institut Niederlande, DIA and project NARDIV (Horizon Europe, founded by the European Commission)