International Relations: Transformative impacts of arts, culture and creativity
February 2020
How arts and culture impact diplomacy and soft power efforts
Factsheet 6 drawn from ANA’s 2019 Insight Report, ‘Transformative: Impacts of culture and creativity’
As nations seek to better understand and measure the impact of their engagement with international partners, the value and importance of cultural reputation is becoming increasingly clear. Australia’s arts and culture activities and institutions enhance our reputation with our international neighbours. Australia also capitalises on its creative and cultural strengths through diplomatic activities such as cultural exchanges.
The need to maintain and enhance Australia’s reputation abroad
Australia’s response to Covid-19 has affected our global reputation in various ways. Global leaders have acknowledged our success in suppressing the spread of the virus, enhancing our reputation and cachet. However, our reputation as an international education provider – our largest service-based export – is likely to take a hit. Looking ahead, our reputation with our immediate neighbours, South-East Asia and the Pacific, will be shaped by our regional response in the wake of the pandemic’s economic impact.
Prior to the Covid-19 global pandemic, Australia was beginning to slip in international reputation rankings. Also, as Australia has become increasingly isolated from its Asia-Pacific neighbours, we have experienced a soft power deficit and have lost ground with this region’s leaders and decision-makers.
By investing in strategies to enhance Australia’s cultural reputation, our country can further strengthen its standing in the Asia-Pacific region and across the global stage.
That’s why we need to be systematic and strategic about developing a strong, rich cultural terrain that enhances our sense of national identity, and showcases 21st century Australia to the world.
Why use arts and culture to build our international relations?
Arts and culture provide a significant and meaningful pathway towards trust and understanding between nations. Further, arts and culture play a key role in building and improving international relationships, including those focused on trade and security. A nation’s cultural reputation is intricately linked to its soft power expertise in navigating and negotiating diplomatic relationships.
Cultural diplomacy has been found to build international relationships and gain the trust of international partners, leaders and peoples. Targeted cultural activities and investment are a potent tool Australia could use to regain lost ground and re-establish our international credentials.
