BOOK REVIEW:
According to the US Department of State, Advisory Committee on Cultural Diplomacy, in essence, “Cultural Diplomacy reveals the soul of a nation, which in turn creates influence.”
According to Michael J. Waller, a senior analyst for strategy at the Center for Security Policy, “Ultimately, the goal of Cultural Diplomacy is to influence a foreign audience and use that influence, which is built up over the long term, as a sort of good will reserve to win support for policies.”
However, recently we came across to a different argument, which contrast the above both views. In his latest book, ‘Cultural Diplomacy: No Bullet, No Blood – A Transformative Force to Advance Understanding and Dialogue’, Mosi Dorbayani, a well-regarded Canadian Executive Advisor states, “Ultimately, the main objective of Cultural Diplomacy is to advance mutual understanding. This can be between individuals, across smaller societies, local communities, diverse group at both regional or national levels, or even across the borders and at international level.”
It seems, Dorbayani’s view point, somewhat opposes the use of Cultural Diplomacy exclusively for political influences and gains. Dorbayani views Cultural Diplomacy more democratically – a tool to establish understanding rather than influencing foreign audience.
The US Advisory Committee on Cultural Diplomacy also state that “Though often overlooked, Cultural Diplomacy can and does play an important role in achieving national security efforts.”
On that note, Dorbayani’s definition of Cultural Diplomacy equally emphasizes the national interests. He defines Cultural Diplomacy as:
“The art of initiating dialogue through exchange of ideas and creations to soften dispute, political disagreement and military conflict – an artistry to reinforce mutual understanding, foster socio-economic collaboration and ties to advance regional and national interests.” Mosi Dorbayani, Cultural Diplomacy.
According to Dorbayani, Cultural Diplomacy, when properly learned and connected at all dimensions, not only has the novel capacity to impact the world public sentiment, but also the belief system of people, their networks, and their countries. And this is best achieved, if it is practiced by the actual creators of cultural products, and not by the administration in the office.
So, in effect, Dorbayani views Cultural Diplomacy as a natural and organic process, which is better exercised by creators of cultural products. He rejects the idea of using culture for political propaganda.
‘Cultural Diplomacy, No Bullet, No Blood’, examines the role of Theater, Film, TV, Music, Poetry, and Indigenous Arts in forging dialogue and understanding to foster social change. It shares amazing case studies and it provides essential strategies to become a Cultural Diplomat.
References:
Cultural Diplomacy, Political Influence, and Integrated Strategy,” in Strategic Influence: Public Diplomacy, Counterpropaganda, and Political Warfare, ed. Michael J. Waller (Washington, DC: Institute of World Politics Press, 2009), p77.
Cultural Diplomacy, No Bullet, No Blood, Mosi Dorbayani, (WAALM Publications, UK/Canada, 2019), p 21
United States, Department of State, Advisory Committee on Cultural Diplomacy, Diplomacy Report of the Advisory Committee on Cultural Diplomacy, 3 – https://www.state.gov/reports-u-s-advisory-commission-on-public-diplomacy/
