Malta’s cultural diplomacy

Abstract

Cultural diplomacy deals with the promotion of one’s culture and the understanding of that of others. This dissertation will address what constitutes Malta’s Cultural Diplomacy by looking at the work done by the Maltese government to engage in cultural diplomacy. This includes analysing cultural agreements, policies and measures that help sustain directly or indirectly this kind of diplomacy. Cultural diplomacy is more than just agreements and documents: it is about their implementation and cultural activities are in fact a living proof of cultural diplomacy. Thus, this dissertation will work to address the number of activities Malta organised abroad. Since in cultural diplomacy, every citizen can be an actor or recipient, this research will show how anyone, from artists to local band clubs, can help sustain Malta’s cultural relations with other countries. Another essential part of cultural diplomacy is the mutual understanding of other cultures. Thus, this research will attempt to portray Malta’s ability to act as a cultural hub for other cultures while offering a platform to foreign artists. It will illustrate how foreign embassies and cultural centres work to promote their culture within the Maltese islands. This research will then analyse the positive measures taken by Malta to help sustain and develop its cultural diplomacy and it will also suggest other possible measures and methods to be taken in order to help develop further Malta’s cultural diplomacy. Cultural diplomacy allows countries to communicate through culture. It is a method that helps not only a country strengthen its relations and presence in the international field but it iv also encourages its people to appreciate more other cultures and be more open to cultural diversity.