Soft power today: Measuring the effects
New research has found that promoting a nation’s culture and political ideals on the global stage brings significant economic and strategic advantages.
Cultural relations
Leadership in the 21st century – how global is your perspective?
As we confront growing challenges, effective leadership will matter more than ever. But what constitutes good leadership? New research points to the skills the next generation will need.
The quiet voice of cultural collaboration is the future of European friendships
British Council Chief Executive Sir Ciarán Devane introduces the findings of the British Council’s EU-UK Culture and Education Series.
Global cultural challenges and custodians of place: Findings from the Edinburgh international culture summit
The report from the Edinburgh International Culture Summit explores the vital issues facing today’s cultural sector and policymakers. We examine the arguments.
Culture: Building resilient communities
Research report: the Edinburgh International Culture Summit report.
'A nation stays alive when its culture stays alive'
Paul Smith, the British Council’s Country Director in Afghanistan when its offices were attacked by the Taliban, gives a personal view of why cultural protection is so vital for humanity.
Guernica: plus ça change
As the UK ratifies the Hague Convention, the importance of cultural protection is perhaps greater than it has been for decades.
Fear and loathing in the west?
Martin Rose examines the causes of the angst accompanying the West’s current political climate and makes a personal case for an urgent increase in empathy and civility in public discourse.
Cities, prosperity and influence
March 2017: How can cities shape their own destinies and help address urban, national and international challenges?
Human identity in an age of uncertainty
This year’s Reith lecturer, Kwame Antony Appiah, reflected on shared identity and the common issues that distort our understanding of one another.