Jeronim Dorotić

THE ROLE OF EUROPEAN CULTURAL CSOS IN FOSTERING THE EU’S EXTERNAL CULTURAL RELATIONS

Introduction

The role of european cultural csos in fostering the eu’s external cultural relations. Explore the vital role of European cultural CSOs in fostering the EU’s external cultural relations. Analyzes soft power, cultural diplomacy, and CSOs' impact on EU international policy.

Abstract

The main aim of this paper is to explore the role of the European cultural civil society organizations (CSOs) in fostering the EU’s external cultural relations. This paper is obtained in the following way. Firstly, the important role culture plays in contemporary international relations is conceptualized as well as the key concepts such as soft power, cultural diplomacy and international cultural relations are outlined. Secondly, the EU’s external cultural relations are articulated as an emerging cross-sectoral policy field which is extending between the EU’s cultural and external policies. Lastly, the role of the European cultural CSOs in fostering the EU’s external cultural relations is assessed in three following steps: firstly, by conceptualizing civil society organizations from general towards the EU’s perspective; secondly, by identifying the significance of involving the CSOs within the EU’s policy framework for external cultural relations; and thirdly, by providing review and analysis of European cultural CSOs’ actions in the field of the EU’s external cultural relations. Considering that culture represents an important component of contemporary international relations, this paper indicates that within the EU context cultural CSOs play an increasingly significant role in fostering further development of more comprehensive EU’s policy framework for external cultural relations.

Review

The paper addresses a highly pertinent and timely topic: the role of European cultural Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in shaping the European Union's external cultural relations. In an era where soft power and cultural diplomacy are increasingly vital instruments in international affairs, investigating the contribution of non-state actors like CSOs is crucial. The abstract outlines a well-structured approach, beginning with a conceptualization of core terms such as soft power and cultural diplomacy, followed by an articulation of the EU's external cultural relations as a distinct, cross-sectoral policy field. This foundational work is essential for establishing the analytical framework for the subsequent assessment. The proposed methodology for assessing the CSOs' role, involving conceptualizing CSOs, identifying their significance within the EU framework, and reviewing their actions, appears logical. However, the abstract could benefit from a clearer indication of the *depth and method* of this "review and analysis of European cultural CSOs’ actions." For instance, it would be valuable to understand if this involves specific case studies, a quantitative analysis of CSO engagement, a qualitative assessment of policy documents, or an examination of funding mechanisms and institutional support. A more detailed explanation of *how* these actions are reviewed would strengthen the perceived rigor of the assessment. Additionally, while the paper identifies the significance of involving CSOs, a deeper exploration of potential challenges or limitations in this engagement – either from the EU's side or the CSOs' perspective – could offer a more nuanced understanding. Overall, this paper promises a valuable contribution to the scholarly understanding of the EU's evolving external policy landscape and the critical role of non-state actors within it. By highlighting that cultural CSOs play an "increasingly significant role" in fostering a more comprehensive EU policy framework, the research not only fills an important gap but also offers practical insights for policymakers. The findings, if supported by robust analysis, could inform strategies for better integrating civil society efforts into the EU's broader cultural diplomacy initiatives. This work underscores the dynamic interplay between culture, civil society, and foreign policy, making it a relevant and impactful piece for researchers and practitioners alike.

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