We are focusing our work on three broad geographical priorities: major emerging economies; countries where the UK is less trusted; and countries cut off from international discourse. In Europe our priority is to work with partners to address shared issues facing Europe.

Major emerging economies

Connections through Culture This programme forges partnerships between Chinese and British cultural institutions in a range of services including online market intelligence, networking events and support for project development. So far 948 cultural institutions in the UK, mainland China and Hong Kong have become members.

Brazil We engage with young audiences across Brazil – a major player in climate change – to build understanding of their country’s role in contributing to climate security and to encourage integration of climate change into Brazilian policy-making. We hold public discussions, debates and lectures, send young Brazilian climate ‘ambassadors’ to participate in international conferences and encourage decision-makers to listen to public concerns. Our work supports the UK government’s public diplomacy climate change initiative.

Countries where the UK is less trusted

Iraq In spite of the difficult security situation in the country, the British Council is giving Iraqi universities access to vital contacts and networks with UK universities and supporting the Ministry of Education to develop their curricula and particularly their approach to English language teaching.

Pakistan We are helping to build trust among the younger generation by two means – an ambitious programme of school partnerships with the UK, which is aiming to reach one million children; and ensuring our work also involves faith-based schools alongside those in the state and private sectors.

Countries where we offer connections to the rest of
the world for societies cut off from international discourse

Zimbabwe We provide support to young professionals who want to improve their skills and employment prospects through our learning centres in Bulawayo and Harare, and through our examinations service, encouraging them to stay in Zimbabwe. Future young leaders take part in our pan-African leadership programme, InterAction.

Burma We provide access to the world through our information centres in Rangoon and Mandalay with uncensored web and media access and by providing a space for free discussion. Over 246,000 people pass through our facilities every year and we have over 7,000 library members. In addition over 4,000 people took examinations with us this year.

• Programme priorities