British Public Diplomacy and Soft Power

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This volume examines two decades of reforms at the Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO), British Council, and BBC World Service, collectively known as the Public Diplomacy Partners. From 1995 to 2015, these organizations transformed their diplomatic practices, adapting to political, technological, and intellectual shifts. Through detailed case studies, the study illustrates the evolution of British diplomacy from a secretive institution to a global thought leader, embracing public diplomacy, digital diplomacy, and soft power. It includes unpublished documents and is the most comprehensive analysis of the FCO and British Council in recent history. Covering milestones like Cool Britannia, the GREAT campaign, the 2012 Olympics, and the use of social media by diplomats, it highlights the theoretical and practical aspects of a significant transformation in British diplomacy. This work is essential for policymakers, advisors, students, researchers, and specialists in foreign policy and communication. It provides insights into the inner workings of contemporary British foreign policy, offering a balanced view of the challenges and successes faced in public diplomacy. The author presents a thorough historical and conceptual context, making it invaluable for practitioners and scholars alike.