Realities and Unexplored Potential by David Ocón and Lluís Bonet
This study explores how multilateral cultural cooperation can strengthen ASEAN-EU ties, complementing the bilateral cultural cooperation already present in the two. Highlighting the importance of multilateral cultural exchanges in fostering mutual understanding and addressing global challenges, it emphasises that culture can serve as a bridge between Southeast Asian and European societies, supporting other forms of cooperation, such as economic, strategic and geopolitical ones.
Multilateral cultural initiatives offer broader, more inclusive engagement opportunities, thereby enhancing diplomatic relations, economic development and regional stability. This research gathered data through extensive historical analysis, targeted surveys and expert interviews, ensuring a comprehensive and nuanced view. The study provides targeted recommendations for policymakers in ASEAN and the EU which focus on developing long-term cultural strategies, increasing institutional collaboration and securing core funding for sustainable projects.
While ASEAN and the EU have had a longstanding relationship since 1977, cultural cooperation has been less robust compared to economic and political ties. Enhancing cultural cooperation can strengthen diplomatic relations, foster mutual understanding and address global challenges collectively. Bilateral cultural cooperation has, for decades, fostered closer ties between ASEAN countries and individual EU member states thanks to institutions such as the Institut Français and the Goethe-Institut as well as ASEAN countries’ cultural centres in European cities.
Over the years, they have promoted cultural exchange, language learning and artistic collaboration, fostering deeper bilateral ties. However, multilateral cultural cooperation can amplify the impact of these efforts by pooling resources and coordinating actions to address broader regional challenges and create more inclusive opportunities for cultural exchange.
The primary objectives of this study include understanding past achievements, analysing the current cooperation status, engaging key stakeholders for their perspectives, and formulating targeted recommendations.
This approach ensures a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the topic, backed by quantitative and qualitative data.
Motivations for Cultural Cooperation: Both ASEAN and the EU view cultural cooperation as a means of enhancing mutual understanding, promoting regional identity and supporting diplomatic and economic relations. Cultural exchanges are seen as vital for fostering empathy and respect between diverse cultures, contributing to regional stability and global peace.
Challenges and Barriers: Key challenges include limited funding for cultural projects, bureaucratic hurdles and differing cultural policies and priorities among ASEAN and EU member states. There is also a need for better coordination and communication among stakeholders involved in cultural initiatives.
Priority Areas for Collaboration: The authors identify several priority areas for intensified cooperation, including digital cultural exchanges, capacity building and educational programmes, heritage preservation, and support for creative industries. These areas are seen as having a high potential for fostering innovation and sustainable development.
Recommendations and Potential Next Steps
Developing Long-term Cultural Strategies: Formulate comprehensive cultural policies which outline clear objectives, priorities and action plans for ASEAN-EU cultural cooperation. These strategies should be aligned with broader regional and global goals, such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Increasing Institutional Collaboration: Enhanced collaboration between cultural institutions, government agencies and private sector stakeholders is essential for effective cultural diplomacy. This can be achieved through regular dialogue, joint initiatives and partnerships which leverage the strengths and resources of different actors.
Securing Sustainable Funding: Adequate funding is crucial for the success of cultural projects. The study recommends establishing dedicated funding mechanisms for ASEAN-EU cultural cooperation, supported by public and private sector contributions.
Promoting Large-scale Multilateral Cultural Events: Organising highprofile cultural events which bring together artists, cultural practitioners and audiences with space for exchanging cooperative initiatives and coproductions can enhance visibility and impact. Examples include biennales, film and performance festivals and cultural symposiums which showcase the diversity and creativity of ASEAN and the EU.
Enhancing Support for Creative Industries: The creative industries are a vital component of cultural cooperation, offering significant economic and social benefits. The authors recommend providing targeted support for creative entrepreneurs, including capacity-building programmes, access to markets and opportunities for international collaboration.
Fostering Interregional Cultural Connectivity: Strengthening cultural ties between ASEAN and the EU requires improved connectivity and mobility. This can be achieved through initiatives such as visa facilitation for cultural practitioners, scholarships for cultural studies and digital platforms which facilitate cultural exchange and collaboration.