Cultural Diplomacy of the Czech Republic During the Presidency of the Council Of

Cultural Diplomacy of the Czech Republic during the Presidency of the Council of

the European Union

Thesis by

Ján Gajdušek

Submitted in Partial fulfillment

Of the Requirements for the degree of

Bachelor of Arts

International and Economic Relations

State University of New York

Empire State College

2013 Reader: Alena Foustková Table of contents 1. Introduction ...... 4 2. Metodology ...... 6 2.1 Diplomacy ...... 6 2.2 Cultural diplomacy ...... 7 2.3 Cultural diplomacy and the concept of “Soft Power” ...... 12 2.4 Cultural diplomacy as a form of Public diplomacy ...... 15 2.5 Cultural diplomacy and the influence of great and small states ...... 16 3. Czech presidency of the Council of the EU ...... 17 3.1 Main priorities ...... 17 3.2 Cultural perspective of the Presidency ...... 18 4. Institutional background ...... 21 4.1 Ministry of foreign affairs ...... 22 4.2 Ministry of culture ...... 23 4.3 Ministry for regional development...... 23 4.4 Ministry for industry and trade ...... 24 4.5 Permanent representation of the Czech Republic to the European Union ...... 24 5. Czech Centers ...... 26 5.1 Activities of Czech Centers during the Presidency ...... 27 5.2 Cultural events organized by the Czech Presidency in Brussels and Prague ...... 28 6. Entropa ...... 28 6.1 Entropa - results from the survey ...... 30 6.2 Media presentation of Entropa ...... 31 7. Conducted survey ...... 32 7.1 Methodology ...... 33 7.2 Conducted results ...... 34 7.3 Conclusion of the survey ...... 41 8. Conclusion ...... 42 9. Attachments ...... 46 Cultural events organized by the Czech Center in Brussels and Prague during the Presidency ...... 46 Questionnaire for the Senior project thesis ...... 52 10. Works cited and Bibliography ...... 56 Annotated bibliography ...... 56 Bibliography ...... 57

Acknowledgement

First and foremost I would like to thank to my family for exceptional support and to my supervisor, Alena Foustková, who has guided and supported me, and provided deep insight into the subject.

Abstract

This work approaches perspectives of Cultural diplomacy and focuses on this phenomenon by using the Czech Presidency of the European Union in 2009 as the area of research. Despite Cultural diplomacy as a specific part of public diplomacy has not been yet widely covered in the Czech Republic, it plays an important role in the globalized world in terms of international presentation. Aim of this work is to determine the main institutional background and mechanisms that the Czech Republic uses for its cultural presentation abroad. Main tools and options performed by the Czech Ministry of foreign affairs and the Czech government are described, which together with Czech

Centers were the main organizers of cultural events that took place in Brussels and the

Czech Republic. With help of the theoretical approach and a conducted survey the work tries to answer a question whether the Czech Republic used the opportunity of the

Presidency of the European Union in order to present its cultural wealth and organizational skills.

“If the culture survives, then so too does the nation”

Jan Mládek

1. Introduction

This work is concerned with a phenomenon of Cultural diplomacy which has not been yet widely covered in the Czech Republic. I have chosen this topic because of my long interest in visual arts and culture and with this work I wanted to demonstrate importance of the cultural side of international relations and its close connection to diplomatic representation of state.

This work therefore approaches the perspective of Cultural diplomacy and highly focuses on this phenomenon by using the Czech Republic as the area of research. One of the most significant diplomatic events of the recent history of the independent Czech

Republic has been present during January 1st and June 30th in 2009, when the Czech

Republic had a chance to present itself in front of the international community as a country holding the Presidency of the Council of the European Union. This important event has tested the overall diplomatic skills of the Czech Republic and clearly showed its abilities to represent itself politically, diplomatically and culturally.

In order to answer these questions I will therefore thoroughly focus on the cultural side of the Czech presidency of the Council of the European Union and the importance of its role in the cultural representation of the country from the perspective and theory of

Cultural diplomacy. I will try to determine, what approaches the Czech Republic uses for its cultural representation and how effectively it represents its culture abroad.

Concerning the structure of the work, Chapter 2 is focused on the theoretical concept of

Cultural diplomacy and its link to theory of Public diplomacy. The concept of Soft power defined by Joseph S. Nye is described as well as differences and roles of large and small states in terms of international cultural presentation. Chapter 3 is focused on the Czech Presidency of the EU, its main priorities and cultural perspectives. Chapter 4 approaches the institutional background of the Presidency. It describes the roles of

Czech institutions such as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Culture or

Ministry of industry and trade concerning the presentation of Czech culture during the

Presidency. Programs and priorities together with specific steps and actions of Czech cultural institutions are described as well. Chapter 5 is focused specifically on activities and cultural events organized by Czech Centers which are the main organizational tool of the Ministry of foreign affairs for implementation of Cultural diplomacy in international politics. This part includes the main cultural events which were organized by Czech centers. Chapter 6 is concerned with media presentation of the Presidency and how it was perceived by people. Next chapter focuses on Entropa, the main artistic contribution to the presidency and also the most controversial. This chapter also perceives opinions on Entropa from the survey. Chapter 8 evaluates the presidency as a whole using graphs and official resources from Eurostat. The last chapter of this work presents results of the survey that was conducted in order to get opinions on the overall importance of culture for the official presentation of the state. Also, questions regarding

Cultural diplomacy and its function within the European Union. The results of the

5 survey confirm the overall importance of the cultural presentation on the international level.

2. Metodology

2.1 Diplomacy Although this work is concerned with Cultural diplomacy, it is important to define and classify the term Diplomacy. Barston claims that Diplomacy “is concerned with the management of relations between states and between states and other actors” (1).

Diplomacy therefore uses dialogue and negotiation in order to pursue interests which are demanded by states. By actors in diplomacy Barston means a wide variety of political as well as non-political entities negotiating in order to reach desired outcomes in international arena (1). Generally, diplomacy is and indispensable tool for international politics. However, it may also use coercion as well as appeasement in order to reach interests.

Main functions of diplomatic missions as an important tool of diplomats in international relations are described in Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations 1961, which may also be understood as the universal goals of diplomacy: “The functions of a diplomatic mission consist, inter alia, in:

 Representing the sending State in the receiving State

 Protecting in the receiving State the interests of the sending State and of its

nationals, within the limits permitted by international law

 Negotiating with the Government of the receiving State

 Ascertaining by all lawful means conditions and developments in the receiving

State, and reporting thereon to the Government of the sending State

 Promoting friendly relations between the sending State and the receiving State,

and developing their economic, cultural and scientific relations” (Vienna

Convention on Diplomatic Relations 1961).

2.2 Cultural diplomacy The term Cultural diplomacy is a combination of terms “Culture” and “Diplomacy”.

“Culture”, according to definition of UNESCO from 1982, “ should be regarded as the set of distinctive spiritual, material, intellectual and emotional features of society or a social group, and that it encompasses, in addition to art and literature, lifestyles, ways of living together, value systems, traditions and beliefs” (UNESCO Universal Declaration on Cultural Diversity). Oxford dictionary defines “Diplomacy” simply as “the profession, activity, or skill of managing international relations, typically by a country’s representatives abroad” (Definition of Diplomacy in English). Cultural diplomacy has been an integrated part of international relations since the beginning of diplomatic activities of states. On the other hand its importance has not been yet fully accepted as significantly as the political spectrum of diplomatic activities.

Classical diplomacy has been usually understood with focus on its political aspect rather to its cultural counterpart. Politics is playing the prime role in diplomacy, but even the political representation is sometimes forgetting that a state is also defined by its culture.

Culture is the original soul of each country which is defined by its uniqueness. It is something that differentiates countries from each other and creates the identity of

7 people. Such identity therefore represents both state and its people, who on the other hand are sharing and keeping their traditions. More than 200 years ago Thomas

Jefferson in his letter to James Madison described exactly what stands for Cultural diplomacy even today: “I am an enthusiast on the subject of the arts. But it is an enthusiasm of which I am not ashamed, as its object is to improve the taste of my countrymen, to increase their reputation, to reconcile to them the respect of the world and procure them its praise” (Cultural Diplomacy: The Linchpin of Public Diplomacy).

Even today Cultural diplomacy is a specific kind of diplomatic practice which stands very close to wide public. Dr. Emil Constantinescu defines Cultural diplomacy as: “a course of actions, which are based on and utilize the exchange of ideas, values, traditions and other aspects of culture or identity, whether to strengthen relationships, enhance socio-cultural cooperation or promote national interests; Cultural diplomacy can be practiced by either the public sector, private sector or civil society”

(Constantinescu, “What is Cultural Diplomacy?”). Cultural diplomacy is therefore a broad term which absorbs a number of actions which can be both controlled by state or not. In many cases even each of us becomes a part of Cultural diplomacy when as a tourist or student we visit other states and become influenced by their cultures. Cultural diplomacy therefore mediates the relationship between cultures of states and helps to create mutual understanding (Tomalová 2008, 7). By using culture as a tool, states can improve perception of their political actions and interests and create better understanding and cooperation between nations.

Dr. Eliška Tomalová separates Cultural diplomacy into two parts; on the one hand

Cultural diplomacy can be used as a form of a representation promoted by diplomatic branches of state, on the other hand Cultural diplomacy can be understood as a natural representation formed only by cultural activities, traditions or values by citizens of a particular country (Graph 1). Tomalová also states that it is important to distinguish between Cultural diplomacy and Cultural politics. Cultural diplomacy (or International

Cultural politics) is representing acts of a state towards other countries. Cultural politics represents cultural acts inside of a state. An example of a State Cultural diplomacy are so called cultural institutes which are organized and funded by Ministries of foreign affairs in foreign countries in order to promote culture as well as language of the country (12).

Graph 1 International politics

Cultural diplomacy (International cultural politics)

Traditional bilateral and Cultural diplomacy as a part multilatera diplomacy of Public diplomacy (cultural (Agreements and actions related exchanges, university and to culture) scientific cooperation, learning languages, foreign broadcasts)

International politics and types of diplomatic activities

Source: (Tomalová 2008, 12)

Despite Cultural diplomacy has been in many countries underestimated by the political representation as something standing outside the influence of elected leaders. On the other hand, some states have found ways how to effectively use Cultural diplomacy as a significant player in their foreign policy. In the Czech Republic we can find British

Council (Great Britain), Alliance Française (France), Goethe Institute (Germany),

Institut Cervantes (Spain), Confucius Institute (China) and others trying to attract Czech citizens to their culture and language. As an example of a natural form of Cultural diplomacy is typically music or film industry. Movies and music have the ability to easily promote and export cultural values and attitudes towards audiences around the world.

Former president of the Czech Republic Václav Havel had as a playwright and dissident deep relationship to cultural values and understood the power of culture as a diplomatic tool. Havel after the fall of communism invited to former Czechoslovakia and later

Czech Republic many world famous musicians and cultural personalities in order to open the country towards Western culture which used to be prohibited by the communist regime. During 1990´s famous rock and pop stars played in front of hundreds of thousands of excited Czechs. The Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, U2, Frank

Zappa or Michael Jackson in Prague came for the first time to perform in countries from behind the former iron curtain. It was a moment of bringing a piece of Western culture to Eastern Europe after tens of years of cultural separation and for many people a sign of freedom. In other countries like the United States music was used by the government to soften relationships with rivals like the Soviet Union. In 1956 US Congressman

Adam Clayton Powell Jr. came with an idea to send a group of African American jazz players to play their music in other parts of the world. His idea was to bring a piece of

American culture to countries in Eastern Europe, Asia or Middle East. These concerts were extremely successful and continued for more than 20 years. Among the so called

Jazz Ambassadors were some of the most famous American jazz musicians such as

Louis Armstrong who performed in Prague in 1965. Jazz was considered by American musicians as music of freedom and in communist countries like Czechoslovakia it meant an important cross-cultural experience for people. Also, the jazz musicians were primarily African Americans sent by the US government in the time when there was still segregation and discrimination in America which many of the musicians had experienced. Therefore they did openly criticize American government for its policies.

However, they criticized American government in countries like Soviet Union which would not allow such amount of freedom of speech to its own citizens. It was an excellent example of promoting a culture in enjoyable way as well as showing a dissent as a message in form of Cultural diplomacy (Turnbull, "Cold War Diplomacy: A

Tribute to the Jazz Ambassadors").

Culture is therefore inseparable part of international relations and Cultural diplomacy is an important way how to spread and promote culture. Nowadays, Cultural diplomacy has become more important concerning the overall representation and “because of the changing nature of public diplomacy and a growing emphasis on reaching a broader public, cultural diplomacy plays a unique role as an intangible form of power that can bring people together for interactive communication and to share cultural values and beliefs” (Grincheva 2010, 171).

Source: http://www.milujemefotografii.cz/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Stones.png

2.3 Cultural diplomacy and the concept of “Soft Power” Cultural diplomacy has been nowadays understood as a tool for greater understanding between nations and states. This phenomenon of understanding culture as something that can be used also for political goals in international politics has been stated in the theory of Soft Power by Joseph S. Nye, who described in his theory that culture has been playing greater and greater role in enforcing the interests in international politics and has been nowadays used as a regular tool by the foreign policies of many states.

The United States have been probably the greatest example of successful use of culture as a tool for its international enforcing of interests. Cultural diplomacy has recently been understood as a way to achieve interests of states by attracting and cooperating with others rather than using the force. And culture has been in this case the best way how to achieve such goal (Nye, “Soft Power Explained”).

Joseph S. Nye claims that power is the ability to affect others to get outcomes which we want. It is possible to affect others in three different ways: by coercion or threats (called sticks), payments or reducements (called carrots), or by attraction. In other words, making others want to achieve our goals. Nye claims that if one is able to get what he wants through attraction less he has to spend on carrots and sticks. This third way he calls the “soft power” (Nye, “Soft Power Explained”).

"Soft power is the ability to get what you want through attraction rather than coercion or payments. It arises from the attractiveness of a country's culture, political ideals, and policies. When our policies are seen as legitimate in the eyes of others, our soft power is enhanced" (Nye, “Soft Power, Foreign Policy, International Diplomacy, War on

Terror”). Power in such environment does not primarily arise from the conviction or coercion, but more and more from sharing information and attraction, which is crucial for the development of soft power. Therefore the main purpose of Cultural diplomacy may be understood as a way how to spread the power through positive actions, not through confrontation (Nye, “Soft Power Explained”).

The phenomenon of the Cultural diplomacy as a tool of Soft power, even though it has been more effectively used by greater states such as the United States or France, may be highly useful also for smaller states such as the Czech Republic. The advantage of successful Cultural diplomacy of a particular state might mean a possibility of a positive image and good international reputation. Such ability to achieve international attention only by cultural activities therefore can become the most effective source of power of such state.

Concerning the Cultural diplomacy it is also important to mention a term Arts diplomacy, “which can be defined as part of cultural diplomacy, concentrating on international exchange programs of visual and performing arts organizations, individual artists, and art professionals (curators and arts managers) to increase mutual understanding, appreciation, and respect of foreign cultural values and beliefs”

(Grincheva 2010, 171). Cultural exchange between nations can be performed in various ways and visual arts are only one of them. To me, this element of representation is among others one of the most common. Each nation or culture has developed its specific sense for visual arts and design which are unique only to that particular culture.

It can be presented in a form of architecture, painting or design.

This kind of unique artistic heritage is therefore something that becomes a part of

Cultural diplomacy exchange. An example of such cultural exchange can be a famous

Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh. His art has become throughout the last century so famous and known that it has made a global cultural impact. Van Gogh´s famous art and his Dutch origin are creating a special mixture that represents Dutch culture.

Despite Van Gogh lived and worked in France, still his origin supports and promotes his home country. It is a form of Cultural diplomacy and an excellent example of Soft power. The notion of peaceful promotion of a unique example of originality is then shared in other nations and cultures and at the end creates inspirations and experience.

This cultural interaction appears in millions of other forms and results in every country in the world in globalized experience.

2.4 Cultural diplomacy as a form of Public diplomacy Public diplomacy as a part of foreign policy began to gain its importance especially during the Cold War. However, the concept of public diplomacy as such is not new. By the early 20th century there have been identified factors which had a significant influence on development and growing importance of public diplomacy. According to

Dr. Peterková these factors are: the growing areas of interest between nations, significant influence of public opinion on diplomacy or revolution in communications technology. Public diplomacy is compared to Nye´s abstract concept of “soft power” a specific and tangible concept which has already been used by various states in different ways (Peterková 2008, 10-11). Since the end of the Cold War there has been a fast development in distribution and ability to obtain information. In nowadays age of globalization the public meaning suddenly gained its importance with usage of modern communication technologies. Therefore the traditional diplomatic approach had to change its practice in order to use the new public diplomacy as an important element of the soft power of the state. Also, there has been formulated a concept of new public diplomacy by Dr. Peterkova as “an activity aimed to influence and shape a positive image of the country, with its values and activities, represented by the foreign public.

The way to achieve the desired objective is truthful communication with foreign publics implemented through the state institutions and private entities” (Peterková 2008, 13).

Public diplomacy is therefore a combination of various actors in diplomacy trying to positively influence the image of the country both abroad and within that particular country. Example of these actors can be any individual, company, nongovernmental organization or even a political party.

2.5 Cultural diplomacy and the influence of great and small states Large and small states have significantly different position in approaching their foreign presentation. Moreover, it is not possible to approach their presentation in the same manner. Their position may be in some ways more difficult in others easier. Large

European countries such as Great Britain, Germany and France are among the countries with the largest network of cultural centers outside their territories, they are co-funding

TV and radio stations abroad and have even their own net of international schools.

Small states do not have the human or financial resources to afford such activities.

However, there is a new trend of cultural cooperation among smaller states, particularly at the level of cultural centers that initiate joint programs (that is often a case of the

Czech Republic and Slovakia or the Visegrád group). Despite the cultural diplomacy may be perceived as a competitive environment (such as the classical diplomacy), the way of cooperation between cultural institutions might be beneficial for small states.

However, from the perspective close to the Czech Republic, the Member States of the

European Union have not agreed on a common approach yet. Although the cooperation of cultural institutions between European countries exists, it is not an activity coordinated at the EU level (Tomalová, “Cooperation between Cultural Institutions Is

Beneficial Mainly for Smaller States”).

Issues about Cultural diplomacy of small and large states are further discussed in chapter 2.5 regarding the opinions expressed by respondents of the questionnaire.

3. Czech presidency of the Council of the EU

3.1 Main priorities The Czech Republic presided in the Council of the European Union from January to

June 2009. It was necessary to formulate the priorities for the presidency as well as organize meetings with representatives of other member states. Preparations for the presidency lasted for two years. The program for the presidency was prepared for eighteen months which included cooperation with France which presided before the

Czech Republic and with Sweden which followed. Motto of the Czech presidency was

"Europe without barriers", which reflects four fundamental freedoms of the European

Union - the free movement of goods, capital, labor and services and symbolically, the

Czech Republic added a new fifth freedom - the free movement of information and knowledge (Předsednictví ČR v Radě EU).

Three main priorities called 3E – Economy, Energy, External Relations were introduced by the Czech Prime minister Mirek Topolánek. Economic priorities of the Czech presidency were significantly affected by global economic crisis, which originally started in the U.S. mortgage markets in 2007. During the following year it has grown into a global financial crisis leading to a significant GDP decline. Such development therefore affected economies of European countries and undermined the process of economic unification in Europe. The aim of the Czech Republic was to introduce certain steps to increase European competitiveness, strengthening consumer confidence as well as small and medium-sized businesses, solving the financial crisis and continuing economic and fiscal reforms in the EU. In the energy sector was a priority to maintain sustainable development and balance between the demands of the environment

17 and the preservation of competitiveness and security. This goal during the first days of presidency expanded to a new topic, which was acute solving of the gas crisis between

Russia and Ukraine. The Czech Republic also decided to enforce a common energy policy and negotiated energy supplies between Russia and EU states. The perspective of

External relations was approached by supporting further enlargement of the European

Union and cooperation between current members (Message from Mirek Topolánek).

Main priorities of the Czech Presidency were therefore set as a standard agenda and supported by Czech political representation in the Council of the European Union.

3.2 Cultural perspective of the Presidency The main objectives of the Presidency in the field of culture were Creativity and

Innovation which were derived from the theme of the European Year 2009. The

European Year is a traditional annual support of a certain area of culture which is derived by the decision of the European Parliament (Assessment of the Czech

Presidency in the Field of Culture, Audiovisual and Intellectual Property).

“The main priority in the field of culture during the Czech Presidency was creativity in linkage to innovation and economy. In this, creativity is perceived as the ability to come up with new ideas and turn visions and dreams into reality, with the arts and culture having always been the primary source of creativity” (Assessment of the Czech

Presidency in the Field of Culture, Audiovisual and Intellectual Property). This citation sums up approach of the Czech representation towards cultural goals and presentation.

From this perspective Czech approach to cultural presentation tends to understand culture as a force for economic and creative innovations. Materials for the presentation

18 of the Czech Republic from the perspective of culture and media had been already formulated by the Czech government in 2005 in the Concept of integrated presentation of the Czech Republic and its updated version from 2007. Czech Republic wants to present its positive image with support of various cultural and social events during the presidency. This concept is the first material which overviews the cultural presentation of the Czech Republic as a single uniting act which should be shared between all ministries and governmental departments. This document was formulated by the

Ministry of foreign affairs which is also considered as the main coordinator of the

Czech presentation abroad. One of the key goals of the concept was to create the

Commission for the presentation of the Czech Republic, which would integrate all government institutions and their presentation under one unified conception.

The aim of the Concept of integrated presentation of the Czech Republic is to:

 “Unify the process of presentation of government institutions both at home and

abroad

 Move away from the current image of a post-communist country with cheap

labor and undeveloped infrastructure. This image no longer reflects reality and

development of the Czech Republic since 1989

 Increase the number of foreign investments and profits from tourism, with

would lead to positive effects on the labor market and increase of living

standards

 Increase the efficiency of the presentation and marketing activities funded by the

state budget

 Support creating a positive image of the Czech Republic and increase its

credibility on the international scene” (Concept of Integrated Presentation of the

Czech Republic).

National Cultural Policy 2009 – 2014 is another important document that introduces the priorities of the Czech Ministry of culture for the period of five years. “Culture can be viewed as a „ticket to the future“ ; once again the Czech Republic wants to become a cultural crossroad, it wants to utilize its natural position in a free, open and creative way in the creation of its own culture, in the preservation of cultural heritage and its application in every realm of social life. The task of the state is to create optimal relations between culture and other realms of life of society and therefore enrich the lives of citizens, develop creative opportunities in the economy, research and education, motivate donors as well as provide sufficient resources to strengthen the competitiveness of the state in a global environment” (National Cultural Policy 2009 –

2014). The aim of the concept is to ensure internal consistency, uniqueness, as well as versatility of the cultural policy which are demonstrated in these four objectives:

 “Economic and social objectives - use of the benefits of cultural and historical

heritage of the country in order to increase its competitiveness in the

international arena

 Civic dimension - focuses mainly on personality development, creativity,

protection of cultural and democratic values and strengthening our liability for

inherited and values

 Definition of the role of the state, counties and municipalities to support the

preservation and development of cultural values

 Role of the state - rulemaking of the cultural policy, particularly in the creation

of a transparent and non-discriminatory environment” (National Cultural Policy

2009 – 2014).

4. Institutional background

Cultural diplomacy is nowadays considered as a cultural section of the complex presentation of the Czech Republic abroad. Again, it is important to differentiate institutions between Cultural diplomacy which is represented by the Ministry of foreign affairs and Cultural politics which is represented by the Ministry of culture. Ministry of foreign affairs if focused on the cultural representation outside of the country, however

Ministry of culture represents cultural activities only within the Czech Republic

(Tomalová, “Cooperation between Cultural Institutions Is Beneficial Mainly for Smaller

States”). From the perspective of the central administration in the case of cultural policy the main actor Ministry of Culture, the cultural diplomacy plays this role the State

Department. It is promoted by governmental agencies and private organizations.

Embassies, general consulates, permanent missions and cultural centers are presenting

Czech culture through various activities and instruments. At the level of government the presentation of our country takes place at two levels - at home and abroad. Despite the

Czech Republic is considered as a small country, it tries to cover all aspects of cultural diplomacy and its activities within international politics. As stated above, the main document that frames interconnectivity of governmental institutions in terms of united

21 presentation of a country is the Concept of integrated presentation of the Czech

Republic (Tomalová 2008, 38, 39)

According to the conception and real activities of the Czech government in the field of culture, the most important institutions are:

4.1 Ministry of foreign affairs Ministry of foreign affairs is the central body of the state administration of the Czech

Republic for foreign policy. Its work is to keep and maintain relations between the

Czech Republic and other countries, international organizations and integration institutions such as the European Union. Ministry develops strategies and coordinates activities of the state based on bilateral and multilateral cooperation with other countries. It coordinates activities of ministries and other central bodies of the state administration in the field of international relations. Ministry of foreign affairs is an instrument of public and cultural diplomacy in foreign countries and foreign

Representation of the country. Here, the main role belongs to diplomatic missions as an official representation of the Czech Republic. The work of diplomatic missions in the sense of presentation is to coordinate all activities of different actors and representatives of the Czech Republic in the host country. Also, the Ministry manages the activities of

Czech embassies abroad as well as activities of 24 Czech Centers which are described below (Concept of integrated presentation of the Czech Republic).

4.2 Ministry of culture Ministry of culture is the central government authority for arts, cultural education and cultural monuments and their protection. Its activities regarding the presentation of

Czech culture towards international community are defined in the concept of National cultural policy 2009-2014 and more recently in the Concept of effective action of the

Ministry of Culture in relation to foreign countries for the years 2013 – 2018. The first conception highlights the importance of effective investments of the state in the field of culture. Advantages of a preserved cultural wealth as well as educative programs and cooperation with international cultural institutions are highlighted. The second conception is focused entirely on the international perspective of cultural activities of the Ministry. “Foreign cultural activities of the Ministry of Culture of the Czech

Republic are implemented especially in the overall process of European integration, membership in international cultural organizations and intellectual property (especially

UNESCO and WIPO), and bilateral relations” (Concept of Effective Action of the

Ministry of Culture in Relation to Foreign Countries for the Years 2013 – 2018).

4.3 Ministry for regional development Ministry for Regional Development provides through its agency Czech Tourism development of regional policy and tourism. Czech Tourism is the only organization under the Ministry for regional development with international activity. It promotes the

Czech Republic as an attractive tourist destination, coordinates national presentation of tourism as well as business and marketing activities regarding tourism in domestic and foreign markets. With all its activities it seeks to improve interest of the international public to visit the Czech Republic. Its aim is to continuously increase tourist arrivals and systematically support and develop the local tourism. Activities of Czech Tourism

23 are mainly focused on promoting areas of tourism such as Czech gastronomy, history, and active holidays. Czech Tourism has currently 23 representations in other countries.

(CzechTourism)

4.4 Ministry for industry and trade Another actor in the presentation of the Czech Republic of the Ministry of Industry and

Trade and its contributory organizations Czech Trade and Czech Invest focusing on the dimension of the economy and support of investments of foreign companies in the

Czech Republic. (About CzechTrade)

Although these organizations are focused on the economic international activities, they are closely cooperating with agencies focused on presentation of culture and tourism -

Czech Centers and Czech Tourism. In some states all of these agencies are working together, for example in Brussels under the Permanent representation of the Czech

Republic to the European Union.

4.5 Permanent representation of the Czech Republic to the European Union Permanent Representation in Brussels functions as the main connection between the

Czech administration and the institutions within the European Union. Its activities are based on the priorities of the Czech Ministry of foreign affairs policies with coordination of the EU institutions. Permanent Representation was together with Czech

Centers coordinated by the Czech Ministry of culture the main organizer of cultural activities, presentations and exhibitions during the presidency.

The mission of the Permanent Representation is in particular:

 “To represent Czech interests in the European Union bodies and institutions

 To strengthen the Czech Republic’s position in the EU structures, including the

corresponding presence of Czech citizens in the Union institutions

 To create conditions for the Czech Republic’s successful participation in

meetings of the supreme EU bodies, i.e. the Council of Ministers, European

Council, EU Summit

 To maintain and deepen work contacts with the representatives of the European

Communities’ institutions, missions and permanent representations of other

countries or supranational and international institutions, and maintain contacts

with Czech citizens employed or otherwise active in the institutions of the

European Community

 To ensure communication between the public administration bodies of the

Czech Republic and the European Community institutions

 To take part in formulating the course of the Czech Republic in the European

Union bodies

 To provide the center with proposed steps to solve technical issues related to the

problems addressed by the European Union bodies and institutions

 To appoint participants in the meetings of specialized bodies of the European

Community in collaboration with central bodies and institutions

 To provide support for delegations sent by the Czech Republic during their

negotiations

 To inform the center about activities of the European Community and the

European Union and send technical documentation and literature

 To help increase awareness about the Czech Republic and its membership in the

EU” (Tasks of the Permanent Representation).

5. Czech Centers

Czech centers are state funded organizations established and coordinated by the

Ministry of foreign affairs. In terms of presenting Czech culture abroad, it is the most important state organization. Together with its headquarters situated in Prague, which manages and coordinates the activities of Czech Center in the Czech Republic, there are

24 Czech Center in various countries of the world. Most of them are located in the neighboring countries of the European Union. Germany is a country with the highest number of four Czech centers, located in Berlin, Dresden, Düsseldorf and Munich. In

Slovakia there are located two Czech Centers in Bratislava and Košice. However, in the rest of the countries there is one Czech Center per state. The main objective and goal of all Czech Centers is the work in public and cultural diplomacy and representation of

Czech culture abroad. The main focus of its activities comes to a field of culture, commerce and tourism. Czech Centers try to create a positive image of the country abroad, encourage international cooperation and partnership, and present the Czech

Republic as a modern and dynamic country of the 21st century (Business Strategy of

Czech Centers 2012-2015).

Priorities in the field of cultural diplomacy are: presentation of Czech culture, traditions and history, as well as the creative potential of contemporary artists. In the field of economics and tourism, potential of the Czech Republic is presented as an attractive tourist destination with quality services and reliable infrastructure. Czech Centers are presenting the best of the country in order to establish international cooperation as well as trade and foreign investment. Existence of global network of Czech Centers allows reaching a wide audience of 24 nations.

Also, through the research, special projects and monitoring media responses the Czech

Centers are able to obtain information about the image of the Czech Republic abroad.

That is particularly an important contribution to the development of strategies which are followed by the presentation of the Czech Republic abroad and creating its attractive brand. Czech Centers often cooperate with local organizations in order to create cultural campaigns while reducing the financial, human and material costs. Through cooperation with non-profit institutions, public sector and humanitarian organizations the Czech

Centers are expanding its scope even beyond the territories of cooperating states

(Business Strategy of Czech Centers 2012-2015).

5.1 Activities of Czech Centers during the Presidency The program of Czech Centers for the Czech Presidency included not only the usual cultural events and presentations, but also specific activities prepared only for this extraordinary opportunity. More than seventy of these events held the status of the

"official event of the Czech Presidency of the Council of the European Union". Majority of events took place in Brussels and Prague as the two main cities holding the main institutions of both EU and the Czech government. Czech Centers therefore used for presenting Czech Centers named main theme for the program as "Tradition and

Presence". The program and presentation was focused on showing Czech traditions and historical and cultural heritage as well as to present Czech contemporary artists and their work. It was prepared in cooperation with partner agencies such as Czech Tourism.

Also, the program of Czech Centers included a special event to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Velvet revolution in 1989. Other events, such as the Czech star were held in 17 Czech centers around the world to present Czech culture as an integrated activity during the Presidency.

5.2 Cultural events organized by the Czech Presidency in Brussels and Prague Brussels, as a city holding the key institutions of the European Union was also hosting the main cultural activities of the Czech Presidency. Overall more than twenty thousand people had visited events presented by the Czech Center in Brussels, the main cultural organizer of the Czech Presidency. Prague was after Brussels the second place where cultural events organized by the Czech Centers were held. (Annual Report of Czech

Centers 2009)

Major cultural events organized by Czech Centers, Ministry of foreign affairs and other

Czech cultural institutions are listed as an attachment in Chapter 9.

6. Entropa

In relation with the cultural presentation of the Czech presidency, the government authorized creation of a representative sculpture. As an author was chosen Czech sculptor David Černý, who presented a draft work which would be created in cooperation with of 27 artists representing all member countries of the European Union.

The government agreed and David Černý received a subsidy for the creation of the work. The gigantic satirical sculpture was named Entropa and on 12 January 2009 it was officially unveiled during a ceremonial in the building of the Council of the

European Union (Entropa).

Under the motto of the Czech Presidency "Europe without barriers" David Černý created a gigantic puzzle in which he displayed each EU country associated with its typical stereotype. It was aimed to provoke laughter and discussion about stereotypes

28 among EU countries. Černý was supposed to present a piece of art where every country would be satirically reflected by its own artist. However, Černý mystified the government by claiming that Entropa was a collective work of 27 artists from the EU.

In the official brochure of Entropa are shown 27 non-existent artists and for some of them Černý even made false internet websites. One day after Entropa was officially unveiled it turned out that all artists were made up and the only authors of the sculpture were David Černý and his team. The work caused a scandal and had a strong media response. Czech political representation was surprised by Černý´s mystification, but still it was presented as an ironic piece of art that should entertain and open discussion.

However, Czech president Vaclav Klaus was shocked. He wrote a letter to the Prime

Minister Mirek Topolánek and asked for official apology to countries that felt embarrassed by the sculpture. Also, Klaus himself decided to write an official apology to his Bulgarian counterpart. In May David Černý prematurely removed the sculpture from the building of the Council of the European Union to protest against the dissolution of Topolánek´s government in the middle of the Presidency (Bartoš 2009).

Some countries officially protested against satirical rendition of their country. Bulgaria, which was depicted as a system of Turkish toilets organized a strong protest and had to be covered with black cloth. Slovakia, shown as salami tied in Hungarian tricolor, also protested but it settled with an apology from the Czech representation. Some countries were shown in a ridiculous or embarrassing way. Map of Germany was made of several crossed autobahns which were reminding a swastika. Denmark was built of Lego bricks.

Poland was depicted as a land of potatoes with priests holding a rainbow colored flag representing Gay rights movement. France was covered in a flag holding a sign “Gréve”

– strike. Austria was depicted as a nuclear power plant, reminding its negative attitude

29 to nuclear energy. Italy was made as a soccer field. Sweden was packed in Ikea box.

Netherlands was drowned in the sea with Muslim minarets at the top of the surface.

Spain was covered by concrete. The map of Great Britain was missing reminding its

Eurosceptic attitude. The Czech Republic was shown as a screen with slogans reminding Eurosceptic attitudes of the Czech president Václav Klaus.

6.1 Entropa - results from the survey Today, with more than 4 year distance it is clear that Entropa together with unexpected fall of the Czech government in the middle of presidency were the two most published events of the Czech presidency. Even four years after its presentation 76% of respondents in my questionnaire answered that they clearly remember this sculpture.

Also, question 25 of the survey was asking if the sculpture was controversial, if it managed to spark a discussion; 73% of respondents answered this question positively.

In question 24 if Entropa presented the Czech Republic at its Presidency well; 46% answered yes and 27% answered no. These answers are showing that this sculpture was controversial, easy to remember, and even in some way managed to present the Czech

Republic as a country that is able to spark discussion and bring some humor into bureaucratic institutions of the EU. From the perspective of respondents of the survey, it is possible to come with a conclusion that the specific sample of people that attended the survey (between 20 and 25 years) are judging the effect of Entropa mostly positively. Such result is contrasting with the media image of Entropa which was mostly negative.

It is still questionable if the presentation was overall positive or negative for the image of country. From the perspective of political representation of the Czech Republic and its international audience, Entropa was a scandal. From the diplomatic point of view it was a negative action, simply the sculpture was for the official presentation of a country presiding in the EU Council too ironic.

6.2 Media presentation of Entropa Media and political representation were mostly against Entropa and together they settled a negative image to the sculpture. In the analysis of the overall media image of the

Czech Presidency (over the period of six months) from Newton Media agency is stated that in the Czech Republic Entropa was presented mostly negatively, 29% of all analyzed articles were negative, 47% ambivalent and only 18% positive. Interesting was a low number of neutral articles – only 29% (Media analysis of the Czech Presidency of the EU). That shows that Entropa was really a moving topic for media and the reactions in news and television were unusually split between either positive or negative reactions.

Source: http://media.novinky.cz/290/152903-original-vzdmp.jpg

7. Conducted survey

The main aim of the research was to determine the relationship between culture and international presentation of a state. Another question which the survey should have answered was perception of the cultural potential of small and large counties and their ability to use this potential. Concerning the Czech presidency of the EU in 2009, author was interested if the diplomatic mission was able to effectively promote Czech culture.

If the message that the Czech ministry of culture presented was understandable, visible, and originally represented Czech culture with overlapping to the future.

7.1 Methodology As a research tool for my Bachelor´s thesis I have computed a survey which clearly shows a sample of answers from people of various nationalities and various backgrounds. Questions of the survey were focused on the phenomenon of Cultural diplomacy and relationship between the state and culture, as well as the institution of the Presidency of the EU and its potential in cultural representation of a particular country. Also, the research was focused on the relationship between size of a country and its ability to effectively present its culture abroad.

For creation of the questionnaire I had used Google documents and its tool for creating a questionnaire. I have distributed the questionnaire via Facebook and email. To use these modern technologies was the fastest way how to get the highest number of results.

Also, from the perspective of evaluation of the survey, Google has in the online program GoogleDocs a special tool for analyzing survey which immediately evaluates results and includes graphs.

The fact that the questionnaire was distributed only online via Facebook and email might also be a possible limitation of the survey. Because of that I have obtained answers of mostly young people who are familiar with computers. On the other hand the survey clearly shows a sample of answers of young and middle generation. However, the questionnaire and its distribution were planned to focus mainly on younger generations, therefore the answers should be understood as opinions of computer-skilled respondents.

7.2 Conducted results The questionnaire was accessible online from February 1st until April 12th 2013. Via

Facebook and email it was sent to more than 150 people. Overall, there had been a total of 59 participants in the survey, 31 men and 28 women, answering 25 questions. Their age varied in all categories with the majority of 20-25 years. This category had 45 respondents, which is 76%. Such large number in one category is due to the fact that most of the respondents are my classmates from school and friends. Therefore the greatest sample of respondents is of my age, which is the category between 20-25 years.

Only 20% of respondents were older than 25 years, some even identified themselves into the category of 50+.

Regarding nationality, from the total of 59 respondents there were 46 from the Czech

Republic, 9 from Slovakia and by 1 from Armenia, USA, France and Kazakhstan.

However, respondents were answering their questions from all around the world, fourth question was looking for current stay of the respondent and answers came mostly from

Prague and Ostrava, two cities where I study and live. On the other hand, other answers came from cities like San Francisco, London, Edinburgh, Lindau, Prešov or Nitra.

Reaching such variety of places from which the respondents were able to answer

(United States, Germany, Great Britain, Slovakia, Czech Republic) was possible only through online distribution of the questionnaire.

Questions 5 and 7 were focused on self-evaluation of respondents regarding their general interest in culture (question 5) and more specifically I was interested if the respondents consider themselves as active or inactive consumers of culture in their town

34 or community (question 7). Despite 83% are interested in culture in the place where they live, 53% claim they are passive consumers of culture and 47% as active. That shows an interesting conclusion which is evident in other answers: half of the respondents consider culture as important, but not as important that they would take an active part in it.

Question 6 of the survey was looking for “What is cultural diplomacy?” and required a written answer. This work shows six most interesting answers to this question:

 Cultural diplomacy is an effort to disseminate local culture abroad in order to: 1)

enter into the awareness of foreign citizens 2) improve the country's image, 3)

improve diplomatic relations with other countries through cultural tolerance and

interconnection.

 Using culture to gain greater tolerance, understanding and appreciation.

 Almost nothing. Transmission of culture in the broad sense goes hand in hand

with economic and political influence of the state - see Great Britain in the 19th

century and the United States in the 20th century. Such states do not have to lift

a finger and the world will follow their cultural patterns.

 Sharing traditions and cultural aspects in order to improve the relationship

between countries or nations.

 I suppose a mutual respect between different cultures living in one community.

 It is an effort to achieve political goals hidden in cultural events and non-violent

pressure.

First answer clearly identifies roles of cultural diplomacy and its element of foreign presentation. In the third part respondent claims that cultural diplomacy is a tool for improvement of diplomatic relations. This opinion was common in the survey, respondents understood term Culture as something that is positive for diplomacy, something with ability to open, unite, connect or improve relationships between countries.

The second answer connects Cultural diplomacy with words tolerance, understanding and appreciation. Respondent defines Cultural diplomacy as a tool to avoid conflict with use of culture and mutual understanding. This positive perception of Cultural diplomacy is also clear from the answer of question 22 where 86% of respondents claimed that

Cultural diplomacy can help to improve the overall image of the country abroad. Third answer, together with the last one, explains Cultural diplomacy very pragmatically.

According to the Realist paradigm the two respondents see behind Cultural diplomacy self-interest pursued by states.

The last answer claims that Cultural diplomacy is only a softer way of pursuing political goals hidden behind the camouflage of culture. Third answer sees behind successful cultural diplomacy only strong economic and political power of a state. As an example are mentioned Great Britain of the 19th century and the United States in the 20th century as political and economic hegemons. The respondent claims that if a state is strong in the international arena, than its cultural “pattern” will be automatically followed by other states. From the perspective of cultural influence of Great Britain in its former colonies, it is evident that these countries have adopted and kept certain cultural

36 traditions which form their cultural identity. These traditions are nowadays integrated into their culture even after decades after decline of the former British Commonwealth.

Similar situation we experience nowadays. The United States as the world´s hegemon influences culture around the world more effectively than anyone else. In terms of popular culture the United States, Great Britain and the states of Western Europe are extremely effective in exporting of their culture abroad. From this perspective culture is playing a powerful tool in international relations.

Questions 10 and 11 were looking for the importance and role of greater states in terms of promoting their culture. In question 10 respondents claimed by 45% that the size of a state matters and smaller states like the Czech Republic or Slovakia are disadvantaged compare to large countries. 36% claimed that the size is not a disadvantage and 17% claimed that the size does not have an influence on promotion of a state´s culture.

In question 11 a total of 58% of respondents answered that Cultural diplomacy of large states such as France or Great Britain does have an influence on their enforcement of interests. Answers 10 and 11 are showing the importance of the size of a state in the cultural presentation, that is also applicable to reality of international politics were stronger states play naturally more important role than smaller ones.

Graph 2

8. Do you think that culture is important for the representation of the state abroad?

Yes 95%

No 2%

It does not have any effect 0%

I don´t know 4%

In question number 8 more than 95% of respondents claimed that culture is important for the representation of a state.

Graph 3

13. To what extend the culture affects how people perceive other states?

A lot 90%

A little 7%

It does not have any effect 0%

I don´t know 3%

Question 13, “To what extend the culture affects how people perceive other states?” clearly showed (90% of respondents answered) that culture is the core of nations and by the uniqueness of each culture we perceive each nation or state.

Question 14, “To what extend this cultural presentation can be influenced by the government?” was aimed to show the difference between natural Cultural diplomacy and Cultural diplomacy coordinated by state. 49% of respondents answered “A lot” and

41% answered “A little”. That demonstrates the clash between promotion of culture organized by the institutions of state and natural expansion of a cultural image of a country.

Question 15 showed the importance of state investments into culture. 90% of respondents answered that investments are important. Despite the importance of investments into culture Czech ministry of culture is annually lowering its budget and investments, now reaching only 1% of the national budget. (The Czech Ministry of

Culture – a Ministry for No One)

Question 16 deals with the same topic from the perspective of the European Union. 49% responded they think that the EU is sufficient to support the culture within its member states, however 32% claimed they don´t know.

Question 19 focuses on perception of the cultural presentation of states within the

Presidency of the EU and its advantages/disadvantages from the perspective of cultural presentation. 76% of respondents consider the possibility of a Presidency as advantage.

That corresponds with other answers that also consider the institution of Presidency as a good possibility to positively present their country.

Question 21, “Do you think that the Czech Republic represented well its culture during the presidency in the European union?” showed that respondents think that the Czech

Republic did not use the potential for the cultural presentation during its Presidency.

15% answered Yes, 37% answered No, 37% answered I don´t know. 37% were clearly not satisfied with the Czech performance during the presidency and other 37% had no information or opinion on this topic. That shows that people´s perception of media image of the Presidency was not very positive.

Considering answers from question 6 about “What is cultural diplomacy?” with 59 definitions, it is necessary to connect these results to question 22; “Do you think that cultural diplomacy can help to improve the overall image of the country abroad?”. 86% of respondents answered that they agree that Cultural diplomacy can improve the international image of a particular country. Written answers from question 6 were describing definitions of Cultural diplomacy in a surprisingly positive way which corresponds with result of question 22.

Question 18 focuses on the foreign awareness of the presentation of Czech culture abroad. Here, 68% respondents clearly showed that the Czech Republic is “Inactive supporter of Czech culture”, only 27% thought that Czech Rep. is an “Active supporter of its culture”. Such opinion indicates that the Czech Ministry of foreign affairs should be more active in presenting a positive image of the country. This answer also corresponds with the size of the Czech Republic and its language. As stated above, its natural Cultural diplomacy in form of music or movies will never be comparable with

40 greater states. Therefore it is necessary to promote Czech culture also by governmental investments and by greater activity of political and diplomatic representation. On this topic was focused question 9 about the overall activity of diplomats and politicians.

86% of respondents answered that diplomatic or political representation should actively promote culture of their country.

7.3 Conclusion of the survey Despite the survey had limitations in its way of distribution via internet, it was able to conduct interesting results. I was surprised by quality of definitions of Cultural diplomacy as well as its positive perception by respondents and their understanding of its function and importance for the presentation of the state. Also, respondents clearly showed that culture is an important part of international relations and should be supported by governmental institutions. Entropa was mentioned as well in the survey and surprisingly not forgotten by people even four years after the Presidency. Its controversial role during the Presidency was not forgotten and from the perspective of media interest Entropa was among the most presented activities of the Czech

Presidency. Czech Republic as a small country therefore needs to promote its cultural activities in order to be seen on the international scene.

Results from the survey are leading to a conclusion that: despite the Czech cultural diplomacy is incomparable to cultural activities of larger states, it is a great tool how even a small state can be seen and heard in front of international audience. The

Presidency of the Council of the European Union is therefore a great opportunity to present a country´s cultural potential.

8. Conclusion

Despite the fact that today the Czech Presidency of the Council of the European Union might be seen as a closed chapter of our history, it is still important to summarize and determine the positive and negative aspects of such mission. The Presidency lasted only for six months and the Czech Republic had a unique chance to promote its culture with before unseen attention. Preparations were thorough and go as far as three years before the beginning of the Presidency. From the studied materials is evident that the Czech administration was aware of the difficulties and responsibilities that such a mission brings. Regardless the fact that the Czech Republic was since 2004 only the second country holding the Presidency from the newly accepted countries in the EU, it was able to introduce a well prepared program. From the perspective of culture, which was the main area of research for this paper, the Czech Presidency had a great opportunity to present the best of the country with the effect of enormous amount of attention from other countries. The institution of the Presidency of the Council of the European Union has a great value especially for smaller states such as the Czech Republic which is, because of its size and historical circumstances, usually not significantly visible and strong in its enforcement of international relations. Therefore the Presidency is from the perspective of small states a powerful tool of international presentation.

According to Joseph Nye, the Presidency is a powerful tool of “soft power” in hands of all states of the EU. They get an equal opportunity to show their capabilities in the field of international relations. The question of the importance between small and great states was interestingly discussed among the respondents of the survey. Their conclusion was that the size of the state matters and therefore in case of the Czech Republic the political

42 and cultural presentation in the form of the Presidency of the Council of the European

Union is the great opportunity to be seen in the arena of the international relations.

However, regarding the survey, I have to admit that the main limitation of the research was in its distribution via online sources only. Therefore the results of the survey are mostly showing results of a specific spectrum of mostly young population. On the other hand, this limitation showed some interested and unexpected results, for example the positive perception of Entropa.

From today´s perspective the Czech Presidency is not valued well. According to media analyses and public opinion polls, the Czech Presidency was determined by three main events that negatively influenced the overall opinion of both media and the public.

The first was the unexpected dissolution of the house of the Commons which, in the middle of the Czech Presidency destabilized our political representation prepared for the

Presidency. The Prime Minister Mirek Topolánek had to resign in front of whole

Europe. In that moment a self-confident small country scored the first own goal.

The second important event that harmed the self-confidence of the Czech Republic was the uncompromising Eurosceptic attitude of the former president Václav Klaus who, for weeks delayed his signing of the Treaty of Lisbon.

And as a third misstep of the Czech Republic is nowadays considered the satirical installation of Entropa in the Justus Lipsius building in Brussels. From the perspective of diplomatic relations the Entropa was a very ironic test of tolerance, of where the boundaries of biases and stereotypes are. Entropa was a provoking piece of art which created many negative reactions both from media and representative of states. Also it was a smart expression of a humorous depiction of stereotypes of states. On the other hand, from the perspective of citizens and younger people (which were mostly respondents in my survey), Entropa was not perceived so negatively. If we consider the aspect of Cultural diplomacy, Entropa had a tremendous impact on the presidency from cultural point of view. The Czech Republic presented itself as a courageous country with ability to present such a provoking piece of art. From that point of view Entropa was according to the results of my research and impact in media an important cultural element impacting the political world.

Considering the institutional background of the Czech Presidency and its cultural program, regarding the analyzed materials from the Ministry of foreign affairs, Ministry of Culture and Czech Centers it is possible to conclude that the Czech Republic was very well prepared. The program, as stated in Chapter 5.1 showed some of the best cultural and historical values that the Czech Republic is able to present. Exhibitions, films, concerts and festivals both in Brussels and Prague were performed and showed in the best possible quality. From this perspective the main question of the Thesis whether the Czech Republic was able to use the potential of the Presidency to promote its cultural wealth and organizational skills is answered positively. According to results of the survey and quality of cultural projects that the Czech Republic had prepared it is possible to conclude that the Presidency was, from the perspective of Cultural

44 diplomacy, successful. Despite the fact that the use of “soft power” had not surpassed

“hard powers” in the sense of political battles, Culture played an important role during the Presidency of the Czech Republic.

9. Attachments

Cultural events organized by the Czech Center in Brussels and Prague during the Presidency

7.1. – 30.6. 2009 – Centropa: Library of Rescued Memories – Terezín, Prague

Exhibition that showed stories of 69 Czech survivors of Holocaust opened in Terezín,

Czech memorial and former concentration camp, and continued in Prague.

7.1. 2009 – Gala Evening to Launch the Czech EU Presidency – Prague (National

Theather)

7. – 19.1. 2009 – Europe without barriers – Prague

Exhibition of graphic posters on the theme of European Union and the Czech

Presidency designed by students of Czech art colleges.

15.1. – 6.2. 2009 – ‘The Martinů Phenomenon’ – Brussels

Exhibition about the legendary Czech classical music composer Bohuslav Martinů

(1890-1959) presented in cooperation with the Czech national museum of music.

21. – 23.1. 2009 – Echoes of the Jihlava International Documentary Film Festival in Brussels – Brussels

Best documentaries shown at the festival in the Czech Republic presented by the Czech

Center in Brussels. Festival´s motto was: “Thinking through film!”.

23.1. 2009 – Dan Bárta & Illustratosphere – Brussels

A concert of a famous Czech alternative jazz singer held in Moliére Theater in Brussels.

28.1. – 9.2. 2009 – Lights! Camera! Prague! – Brussels

A special event organized by the Czech film commission in Prague House in Brussels.

30.1. – 10.5. 2009 – Decadence – The Bohemian Lands 1880–1914 – Brussels

An exhibition presented Czech decadent art from Art Nouveau, Expressionism and

Cubism. This event was important from the perception of Czech art in the Western countries where most of the paintings from Czech masters shown at the exhibition were never presented.

11.2. – 6.3. 2009 – The Life and Times of Karel Čapek – Brussels

An exhibition held in the building of the Czech Center in Brussels presented the world famous Czech writer and novelist Karel Čapek (1890-1938).

12. – 20.2. 2009 – Exhibition of the Crown Jewels - Prague

Czech Crown Jewels from the high gothic period are presented only during special occasions, usually only once in five years. Beginning of the Czech Presidency was therefore considered as a special occasion to present this most honored treasure.

25.2. – 31.3. 2009 – Prague – the City of Franz Kafka – Brussels

An exhibition presented photographs and original documents showing the life of Franz

Kafka, one of the most famous Czech novelists who wrote in German.

3.3. 2009 – Music behind the Iron Curtain – Brussels

In 2009 the Czech Republic was commemorating the 20th of the Velvet revolution and the fall of the Iron Curtain. In connection to this occasion a series of concerts was held in order to present Czech musicians that were persecuted during the communist era.

11.3. – 1.5. 2009 – One World – International Human Rights Documentary Festival

– Prague, Washington, Brussels

Film festival One World is currently one of the greatest festivals concerned with human rights documentaries in the world and in the Czech Republic belongs among the most prestigious cultural events.

11.3. – 3.4. 2009 – František Drtikol – Brussels

An exhibition presented works of František Drtikol (1883-1961), one of the most famous Czech photographers of the 20th century. His works are now exhibited around most prestigious galleries in the world.

24.3. – 2.4. 2009 – Jiří Trnka and his successors – Brussels

An exhibition showed artifacts and works of one of the founders of Czech animated film. Trnka used handmade puppets and his own original installations for his films.

27.3. – 26.4. 2009 – Křehký by Designblok Prague – Brussels

This exhibition showed contemporary Czech design, especially glass and porcelain production. Some of the best Czech designers and glassmaking companies were presented, such as Lasvit or Olgoj Chorchoj.

31.3. 2009 – Music without Frontiers: Concert by the EUROPERA Orchestra –

Brussels

A classical concert of the best students from conservatories from the Czech Republic held in the Royal Conservatory of Brussels.

1.4. 2009 – Academia Film Olomouc in Brussels – Brussels

This film festival originally started in Olomouc in 1966 and focuses on the popularization of science and culture. During its presentation in Brussels the festival offered some of the most known and popular scientific documentaries from its 50 years of history.

25.4. – 1.5. 2009 – ‘Totalitarian Circus’ 20 years without a curtain – Brussels

This special exhibition presented a life behind the Iron Curtain in a specific way that visitors could try some of its customs and habits inn connection to main historical events during the totalitarian era.

1.5. 2009 – Life without Barriers – Prague

Life without barriers was a happening held in connection to the main motto of the

Czech Presidency: Europe without barriers. The happening presented a rock opera composed by Roger Waters, former member of Pink Floyd.

5.5. – 7.6. 2009 – George of Poděbrady – Brussels

The exhibition presented a historical figure of the Bohemia – king George of

Poděbrady, who became famous for his attempt to establish a peace organization among the European Christian states. This attempt may be today understood as the first and unrealized idea of the united Europe living in peace.

6.5. – 5.6. 2009 – Art Brut – Brussels

This exhibition presented a specific form of visual art, sometimes also called primitivism. Artists belonging to this style tried to simplify their artistic expression to the most primitive level. Pablo Picasso and Jean Dubuffet are among the famous artists

49 belonging to this style. The Czech Republic presented its art brut artist Anna

Zemánková.

9.5. 2009 – Europe Day – Prague

“Europe Day commemorates 9 May 1950. On this day, the then French Minister of

Foreign Affairs, Robert Schuman, presented a declaration which led to the creation of the European Communities. On the same day in 2009, Prague hosted a special concert commemorating this historic event. The Czech Philharmonic Orchestra, with the world- famous conductor Jiří Bělohlávek and renowned soloists performed the famous

Symphony No. 9 by Ludwig van Beethoven, which included the Ode to Joy” (Cultural

Events of the Czech Presidency).

20.5. 2009 – Recalling Gustav Mahler in Brussels – Brussels

A special concert of Mahler´s musical compositions is aimed to present his Czech roots.

10. – 30.6. 2009 – Historical Gems – Brussels

The exhibition presented some of the most famous historical monuments and celebrated the 50th anniversary of the state funded care of the monuments. There are a total of 12 historical monuments acknowledged and protected by UNESCO which were among the main “gems” of the exhibition.

11.6. – Czech Philharmonic Orchestra – Brussels

Concert of the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra in Brussels was one of the main cultural events of the whole presidency. Orchestra presented Bohuslav Martinú´s music conducted by Zdeněk Mácal.

18. – 21.6. 2009 – United Islands of Prague 2009 – Prague

United Islands is a music festival presenting some of the latest musical performers from all parts of the world. It is held annually in Prague since 2007.

24.6. – 10.7. 2009 – Emmy Destin – cognita et incognita – Brussels

The Prague House in Brussels hosted an exhibition about famous Czech opera singer

Emma Destin. Exhibition presented personal belongings of the famous singer, unveiling some unknown aspects of her life.

28.6. 2009 – 51th year of the international opera festival Smetana’s Litomyšl –

Litomyšl

“The International Opera Festival Smetana’s Litomyšl is one of the oldest and biggest classical music festivals in the Czech Republic. It has been held since 1949 at the birthplace of Bedřich Smetana, the founder of Czech national music” (Cultural Events of the Czech Presidency).

27.6. 2009 – Closing Ceremony of the Czech EU Presidency: Czech Street Party –

Brussels

The street party to mark the official closing of the Czech Presidency took place in the

Grand Place, the central square of Brussels. During the all-day program, cubes of various size representing lumps of sugar were placed on Brussels’ central square. Street music, theatre performances and contemporary Czech visual art was presented.

Source for the attachment: “Cultural Events of the Czech Presidency”.

Questionnaire for the Senior project thesis This is a questionnaire for my Senior project thesis. Questions are concerning the Czech presidency of the EU and the phenomenon of the Cultural Diplomacy. It will take you only a few minutes and I will be very grateful for your help. Thank you.

1. Sex

a) Male b) Female

2. Age

a) 15-19 b) 20-25 c) 26-30 d) 31 and older

3. Country of origin

4. Enter the city in which you live/study.

5. Are you interested in cultural events in your city / community?

a) Yes b) No

6. What is cultural diplomacy?

7. Are you more:

a) The active consumer of cultural events - visiting shows, theaters, museums? b) Or less active consumer of cultural events – rather interested in other things?

8. Do you think that culture is important for the representation of the state abroad?

a) Yes b) No c) It does not have any effect d) I don´t know.

9. Do you think that diplomats/politicians should actively promote culture of their countries abroad?