Cultural diplomacy as a component of state policy in the sphere of culture at the current stage of Ukrainian state-formation

Abstract

The article defines the latest role and significance of domestic cultural diplomacy at the current stage of Ukrainian state formation and provides practical recommendations for its improvement. The topicality of the topic is substantiated and the analysis of the latest research and publications is carried out. Such concepts as: "cultural diplomacy" are disclosed; "soft power" and its dimensions. Cultural diplomacy is considered as one of the most important instruments of "soft power" of states in the international arena. The relevance of cultural diplomacy during military confrontations is revealed. The models of cultural diplomacy are revealed and the modern domestic model is described. The provisions that characterize the current situation in Ukraine and the world, caused by Russian armed aggression against Ukraine, and which national cultural diplomacy should take into account in its activities are given. Within the framework of domestic cultural diplomacy, a number of interrelated actual tasks that require an urgent solution have been identified. A number of practical problems to be solved by subjects of domestic cultural diplomacy are specified. Deficiencies in the activities of Ukrainian cultural and information centers abroad have been identified. The activity of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine as one of the main subjects of national cultural diplomacy was analyzed and practical recommendations for its improvement were provided. An analysis of the content and information content of the official websites of diplomatic missions and consular institutions of Ukraine was carried out and practical recommendations for their improvement were provided. In connection with the Russian-Ukrainian confrontation, multi-aspect support of the cultural and artistic industry of Ukraine from the European Union was revealed. As an example, the programs of the European Union in the field of culture and arts in which Ukrainian representatives can participate under special conditions are indicated (see Table 1). The factors influencing the perception of the state by the European community are defined. The strengths and weaknesses of Ukrainian cultural diplomacy in the context of interaction with the European Union are identified. The possibilities of cultural diplomacy of Ukraine are indicated. The priorities that Ukraine should be guided by during cultural interaction with the member states of the European Union have been determined. The main components of the renewed strategy of cultural diplomacy of Ukraine in the European Union are outlined. Prospective directions of further theoretical and practical research are determined.