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Cultural Diplomacy Academy proposed
15/08/2012
Culture Secretary Fiona Hyslop has announced the Scottish Government will explore a proposal for an Academy of Cultural Diplomacy to promote Scotland’s global economic and cultural interests.
Following the Edinburgh International Culture Summit held in the Scottish Parliament this week, Ms Hyslop confirmed that the Scottish Government will explore the feasibility of the creation of an Academy based at the University of Edinburgh.
Ms Hyslop said:
"Over the past two days, representatives of more than 30 countries gathered in Edinburgh - along with prominent artists, thinkers and others responsible for formulating and implementing cultural policy - to discuss how the arts enrich the lives of people around the world and contribute to the wellbeing of nations.
"The sharing of culture is a hugely powerful means of international dialogue. A Scottish Academy of Cultural Diplomacy could have potential to provide a source of international research and expertise to businesses and government, tailored to Scottish needs, providing understanding of the value of cultural activity and exchange.
"We will be working with the University of Edinburgh and the British Council to further explore this proposal. A centre of excellence for cultural diplomacy based in Scotland would undoubtedly enhance Scotland’s international reputation."
Nations that participated in the Culture Summit will be kept informed about the development of the Academy, and their views will be sought.
James Boyle, British Council Trustee, and Stuart MacDonald, an independent culture consultant, are behind the proposal.
Mr Boyle said:
"Edinburgh's Second Enlightenment is flourishing. Stuart MacDonald and I recently brought the idea for a world leading Academy of Cultural Diplomacy to Edinburgh University, where it was immediately recognised and endorsed; the Scottish Government has acted swiftly to allow that idea to flourish and take shape."
Professor Stephen Hillier, Vice-Principal International, University of Edinburgh said:
"Given Edinburgh’s international status as a city of learning and culture it is fitting that the University of Edinburgh and the Scottish Government should collaborate in this way, to the greater good of populations and peoples around the globe. "
Related information:
- The Edinburgh International Culture Summit is a collaboration between the Scottish Government, UK Government, British Council and Edinburgh International Festival, and has been a unique opportunity to gather Culture Ministers with prominent artists, thinkers and others responsible for formulating and implementing cultural policy to discuss how the arts enrich the lives of people around the world and contribute to the wellbeing of nations.