Creative Commons

This dissertation was written as part of the MA in Art, Law and Economy at the International Hellenic University. It will discuss Cultural Diplomacy and the role of the Arts in International Relations, with a specific focus on Greece. The definition of culture, arts, public and cultural diplomacy will be given, in order both for the reader and the writer to have a specific framework regarding the context of the research. The cultural policies of Greece, both past and present will be presented and commented on together with the official factors functioning in the exercise of cultural diplomacy. Specific examples of the role of the arts in Greek cultural diplomacy and how artistic events have been used to promote the goals and objectives of the country abroad will be demonstrated. Also, conclusions and comments made by the writer will be included, along with some thoughts on globalization. This is in order to highlight the changes which are taking place nowadays, and how Greece can be more active and up to date in its cultural diplomacy activities and presence abroad.