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Cultural relations

Christmas Tree gifted by Norway to the UK, in Trafalgar Square

‘Tusen Takk’ for the Christmas Tree!

Norwegian Christmas generosity shows how Soft Power can come in many forms.

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.

Image of teapot and cup and saucer

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.

Image of new British Council chairman

New British Council Chairman

Stevie Spring CBE is appointed as the new Chairman of the organisation.

Image of smiling female

Knowledge diplomacy

Knowledge Diplomacy’ is increasingly appearing in debates about the role of education internationally. We look at why.

Image of Dr Benjamin Zephaniah

‘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.

Image of UN office New York

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.

Image of a person holding his face

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.

Image of Royal Scottish Academy building during the Edinburgh Festival

Connecting through culture: The Edinburgh international culture summit 2018

Research report: the latest Edinburgh International Culture Summit report focuses on culture, wellbeing, and investment.

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© 2025 British Council

The United Kingdom's international organisation for cultural relations and educational opportunities.
A registered charity: 209131 (England and Wales) SC037733 (Scotland).