Foreign policy and the cultural factor : a research and education agenda

Abstract

Working together across national borders demands dealing with different cultures. Cultural competence, consisting of understanding beliefs, values, and behavioural practices of other cultures, is a prerequisite for effective cooperation across cultures. It reflects knowledge, skills and capabilities, which are indispensable in disciplines such as international relations, foreign policy, and diplomacy. This statement sounds so simple that it is nearly an axiom. However, systematic academic research in this field is relatively recent and limited in scope (mostly related to business and public opinion). Although the relationships between the study of international relations, foreign policy, diplomacy, and culture may intuitively be understood but they are not subject of a structured research paradigm. Theoretical reflection is almost absent: the literature on the impact of the cultural factor in the field of international relations, foreign policy, and diplomacy is scarce and fragmented and does not signify a mature and dynamic area of academic interest. Now and again a scholarly paper appears dealing with a specific issue but an advanced framework for understanding these relations has not yet been developed. Lacking such a framework the politicians and the civil servants involved often act upon intuitive and received wisdoms. This is a serious omission, particularly in times of severe cross-national conflicts and tensions. But it is also true for the day-to-day diplomatic metier: aspirant diplomats are not systematically trained in understanding and coping with cross-cultural differences. This will affect their diplomatic effectiveness. Having substantial cultural competences – at the macro, meso, and micro level as well – is essential for the proficiency and professionalization of the disciplines of international relations, foreign policy, and diplomacy.