Conference | Workshop
Perspectives on Taiwan's Cultural and Public Diplomacy
- Date
- Tuesday 22 April 2025
- Time
- Address
-
Herta Mohr
Witte Singel 27A
2311 BG Leiden - Room
- 0.31
Taiwan's unique geopolitical position and evolving national identity significantly shape its approach to cultural and public diplomacy. As a de facto state navigating a complex international landscape, Taiwan employs diverse strategies to engage global audiences and foster understanding of its reality. This workshop explores the multifaceted nature of these efforts, examining their historical context, current challenges, and future prospects.
The Workshop
Bringing together leading scholars, this workshop analyses key aspects of Taiwan's public diplomacy, including:
- Its evolution over the past decade
- The interplay between public diplomacy and international relations
- The legacy of Dutch colonial rule and its influence on contemporary cultural diplomacy
- The role of ethno-religious identity and LGBTQ+ issues
- The power of literature in cultural relations
- The importance of civic engagement
Through in-depth discussions, the workshop aims to illuminate how Taiwan navigates diplomatic constraints and asserts its agency on the global stage. It seeks to contribute to a more nuanced and comprehensive understanding of Taiwan's cultural and public diplomacy, fostering dialogue and collaboration among scholars in this vital field. The insights generated will inform future research and policy decisions related to Taiwan's international engagement and its pursuit of a secure place in the global community.
Organisation
This international workshop is convened by Jens Damm, Visiting Chair of Taiwan Studies at the International Institute for Asian Studies (IIAS) and Leiden University, and organised by IIAS. It forms part of the Chair of Taiwan Studies Programme, which is supported by the Department of Cross-Strait Education of the Ministry of Education of the Republic of China (Taiwan), the IIAS, and the Leiden University Faculty of Humanities. The workshop is organised in cooperation with Ann Heylen, Professor, Department of Taiwan Culture, Languages and Literature, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan.
Information and registration
This full-day workshop takes place in Leiden, The Netherlands (not online) and can be attended free of charge. All are welcome, but registration is required as seating is limited.
Full program and registration link are found on the IIAS website