EULAT4Culture and Transregional Cultural Diplomacy
Abstract
This study examines EULAT4Culture as a pioneering model of transregional cultural diplomacy, emphasizing its distinctive features, strategic significance, and broader implications for international cultural cooperation. Unlike traditional state-led cultural diplomacy, which primarily serves national interests, EULAT4Culture adopts a multi-stakeholder, bottom-up approach, engaging civil society organizations, local artists, and academic institutions in shaping cultural narratives and fostering dialogue. The initiative stands out for its policy-driven integration with global agendas, particularly the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), addressing themes such as social inclusion, migration, digital transformation, and environmental sustainability. Through case studies of key events and programs, this research highlights how EULAT4Culture fosters reciprocal cultural exchange between Europe and Latin America (LA), moving beyond soft power strategies to become a mechanism for addressing transnational challenges. Its cross-continental scope, spanning Europe, LA, Asia, and Africa, further reinforces its potential as a sustainable model for long-term cultural cooperation. However, the initiative’s future remains uncertain, requiring continued institutional support, strategic policy integration, and financial sustainability to extend its impact beyond temporary project cycles. Ultimately, this research emphasizes EULAT4Culture’s role in redefining cultural diplomacy, demonstrating that culture is not just a tool of influence but a catalyst for global cooperation and mutual understanding.
