Panel discussion on “Winning hearts and minds” – the Role of Culture in International Relations

Moderator:

Professor Tommy Koh, Ambassador-at-large, Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Panelists:

Dr Michael Reiterer, Principal Advisor and Ambassador, European External Actions Service

Prof Cedomir Nestorovic, Professor of International Marketing & Geopolitics, ESSEC Business School

Abstract

While the importance of culture in international relations was recognised during the ideological competition of the Cold War, the “end of history” hubris during the immediate post-Cold war period led to a certain disregard in the importance of cultural understanding and appreciation in the conduct of international relations. The 9/11 terrorist attacks and the rise of Islamic fundamentalism has led to renew focus and discussion on issues of values, culture and identity. Questions on how to win the “hearts and minds” in the conduct of foreign policy, and the importance of cultural diplomacy has regained a certain urgency. How can cultural richness and diversity be harnessed by nations and regional entities such as the European Union (EU) and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to promote and strengthen intra-regional and international cooperation? And how important is cultural diplomacy in international relations? These are some of the questions that will be discussed in the panel.

When
Monday, 22 February 2016 from 15:00 to 17:00

Where
ESSEC Asia-Pacific Campus – 2 One-north Gateway 138502 Singapore