The Annual Forum on Cultural Diplomacy 2026 will bring together political and diplomatic leaders, representatives of international organisations, academics, cultural figures, civil society representatives and emerging leaders in Potsdam-Berlin for a three-day programme of dialogue and exchange on the role of cultural diplomacy in an increasingly complex international environment. The conference will commence with an official arrival day on 14 December, followed by an evening welcome reception for all participants. At a time of profound geopolitical change and renewed challenges to international cooperation, the conference will examine how dialogue across cultures can strengthen mutual understanding, sustain diplomatic engagement and contribute to more peaceful and constructive relations between societies and nations.

Participation#

Participation in the conference is open to governmental & diplomatic officials, academics, civil society practitioners, private sector representatives and young professionals. If you would like to reserve a position and participate in the forum, please fill out the online registration form.

Participation Cost#

The participation fee is €695. The Institute for Cultural Diplomacy aims to enable broad and inclusive participation in its international conferences and programmes and therefore makes every effort to reduce and subsidise participation costs. The fee contributes towards covering the costs of developing and running the programme.

About the ICD Academy for Cultural Diplomacy#

The ICD Academy is the research and development arm of the Institute for Cultural Diplomacy. It is dedicated to developing and advancing both the theory and the practice of cultural diplomacy and its related fields. The Academy works to deepen the understanding of how cultural diplomacy operates in contemporary international affairs and to raise awareness of its relevance for strengthening intercultural relations and contributing to global stability.

As a research and development institute, the ICD Academy focuses on generating new knowledge, designing innovative methodologies, and building practical tools that support the effective use of culture in international engagement. Its mission is to connect academic research with real-world application and to provide a structured platform where scholars, policymakers, and practitioners can collaborate to address global challenges through cultural dialogue.

The ICD Academy’s core academic areas include intercultural relations, global governance, international politics, modern economic development, international law, and human rights. Through an integrated approach, it examines how cultural diplomacy can contribute to constructive international interaction across these disciplines. This combination of research, analysis, and applied work enhances understanding of cultural diplomacy and increases its potential for effective implementation.

Research#

The ICD Academy conducts ongoing research in cultural diplomacy, exploring both its historical evolution and the latest global developments. The research offers the public, as well as academic and diplomatic communities, accessible insights and analytical resources on the role of cultural diplomacy in the developing world. Through these efforts, the ICD Academy fosters a deeper understanding of how cultural diplomacy initiatives influence global engagement.

Thematic Programs#

The ICD Academy develops thematic programs that focus on specific political, cultural, or economic issues, as well as particular geographical regions. These programs explore cultural diplomacy as a practical tool for fostering cooperation and mutual understanding. Each program features a range of activities, including international conferences, global events, panel discussions, and exhibitions united by a common theme.