A cultural superpower? The European Union’s venture in cultural diplomacy

The EU’s international reputation is closely related to Europe’s cultural heritage. Cultural policy is predominantly an EU member state prerogative but the EU’s involvement in international cultural relations has grown‚ particularly in terms of trade policy and spending. The EU currently spends more on international cultural cooperation than all but its largest member states. However, the Commission’s fragmented approach makes policy synergies difficult to achieve and limits the EU’s international visibility. With other global players investing in cultural diplomacy‚ the Council has called on the EU to include culture in EU foreign policy and improve coordination.