Explainer: Understanding Cultural Diplomacy

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In a diverse, interconnected world, the relationship between cultures and civilizations has become increasingly prominent. Governments, institutions, and individuals are recognizing the significance of cultural understanding and collaboration to foster peace, promote global cooperation, and  strengthen ties between communities. This has given rise to the concept of cultural diplomacy. Defining Cultural Diplomacy Cultural diplomacy involves the active promotion and facilitation of exchange of ideas, values, traditions, and other aspects of culture or identity between nations and societies. It encompasses artistic, musical, literature, culinary, and additional cultural expressions to fortify relationships, enhance socio-cultural cooperation, and promote national interests. Cultural diplomacy...

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The Great International Exchange Community: A Response To Global Ties U.S. Community Impact Study

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By Evy Vannoy, Program Associate, International Visitors Leadership Program, Meridian International Center   The public diplomacy community has long acknowledged the value of exchange programs. However, such efforts to advance mutual understanding and bolster global connections are inherently challenging endeavors to quantify. How much does meeting a group of international visitors impact a local community? To what extent does one’s cultural awareness increase as a result of these interactions? Data that addresses the impact of human connection is challenging to capture. Despite this, in its inaugural study, The Global Ties U.S. Community Impact Report, released by Global Ties U.S....

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How the African Union is Working Towards Eradicating Hunger and Malnutrition 

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The Power of International Collaboration Through Exchange  By Colin Blais, Senior Program Associate, International Visitor Leadership Program    On July 31, 2023, seven representatives from the United States Permanent Mission to the African Union arrived in Washington, DC, to begin their two-week exchange in the U.S. as part of the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP). The “Best Practices to Improve Food Security” program focused on international food policy and convened networks of peers and professional counterparts in Sacramento, California and Detroit, Michigan.   Representing various offices and subdivisions within the African Union, African Union Commission and African Union Development...

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Disability Pride Month: A Diplomatic Perspective on Inclusivity

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By Fatema Hosseini, Meridian Global Communications and Journalism Fellow   Disability Pride Month celebrated in July, is a significant commemoration highlighting essential aspects of diversity and inclusivity in societies worldwide. Disability Pride Month empowers individuals with disabilities, acknowledging their talents and contributions and echoing their societal values. It presents an excellent opportunity for countries to collaborate and exchange knowledge on policies and practices that encourage inclusivity not just for individuals with disabilities but also for minority communities.   For instance, the “Disability Rights: Equal Access for All,” a regional U.S. Department of State International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) for...

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From Pakistan to Peru: How IVLP TIP Heroes Are Shaping the Fight Against Human Trafficking

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The Power of International Collaboration and Best Practices On June 15, 2023, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken presented eight anti-trafficking in persons (TIP) activists with the 2023 TIP Report Heroes Award. Despite differences in age, language, background, and country of origin, these awardees are committed to holding perpetrators accountable, supporting trafficking survivors, and eliminating the factors contributing to the practices. Meridian International Center designed and implemented an International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) for six of these awardees for the 8th year — connecting them with their professional counterparts in Washington, DC; Boston, Massachusetts; and Miami, Florida, in connection...

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