‘Tusen Takk’ for the Christmas Tree!
Norwegian Christmas generosity shows how Soft Power can come in many forms.
Cultural relations
British Council celebrates 85 years as the UK’s cultural relations organisation
The British Council turns 85 this month. From humble beginnings in 1934, we now have offices in 108 countries, creating opportunities, making connections, and building trust for the UK.
Crossing Points: UK-Australia / New Zealand / Pacific
Essay collection: islands in the stream – the UK’s relations with Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific region explored.
Reading the tea leaves
Alison Baily looks at the rich and surprising history of the nation’s favourite beverage – and what it reveals about cultural contact and infusion.
Knowledge diplomacy
Knowledge Diplomacy’ is increasingly appearing in debates about the role of education internationally. We look at why.
New British Council Chairman
Stevie Spring CBE is appointed as the new Chairman of the organisation.
‘English is the currency!’
British poet Dr Benjamin Zephaniah opened the British Council ELTons Awards for Innovation in English Language Teaching with a poem to mark our 85th anniversary.
The unselfish meme? How culture has shaped human destiny
Alison Baily reviews the evidence for the fundamental role culture has played in the evolution of our species and the structure of our minds.
Connecting through culture: The Edinburgh international culture summit 2018
Research report: the latest Edinburgh International Culture Summit report focuses on culture, wellbeing, and investment.
Uniting Nations: Culture and sustainable development
British Council Arts Director Kate Arthurs speaks at the UN about how culture can help reduce poverty and create social change.