In its first two years, the NARDIV project has made substantial progress in advancing research, education, and public engagement in the field of cultural diplomacy. The collaboration between academic institutions and cultural organizations has proven particularly fruitful—not just for disseminating findings but for transforming cultural institutes into laboratories of dialogue, where new ideas, methods, and narratives are co-created with civil society.
All work packages have contributed to a strong and cohesive research architecture:
WP2 developed new approaches to East–West perceptions in women’s life writing. Two PhD projects progressed well, and an edited volume (Routledge) is in preparation. Workshops, interviews, and university courses integrated artistic and academic perspectives while engaging underrepresented voices.
WP3 examined postcolonial influences on European cultural policy, focusing on tensions between cosmopolitanism and national interests. Fieldwork, media analysis, and collaboration with B-SHAPES led to impactful events, publications, and academic-policy dialogue.
WP4 analyzed Russian disinformation narratives and explored affect-based methods for understanding digital perception. Findings were incorporated into new university courses and shared with the wider public via major events like re:publica25.
WP5 conducted seven interdisciplinary case studies, connecting historical and artistic research. Public installations, workshops, and a summer school created inclusive spaces for reflection on memory, identity, and cultural power.
WP6 focused on hybrid community building via digital engagement. Workshops and participatory methods with youth and professionals informed both fieldwork and NARDIV’s communication strategy.
WP7 ensured long-term impact by securing accreditation for a new MA in Cultural Diplomacy, developing the Virtual Museum, and preparing strategic policy briefs for EU institutions.
WP8 expanded communication and outreach, increasing media coverage, online visibility, and public engagement across Europe.
WP9 maintained ethical standards and completed all required approvals and reporting.
NARDIV’s integrated, cross-sectoral model—embedding academic research in cultural institutions and linking it directly to public and policy discourse—has proven highly effective. With its strong interdisciplinary foundation and growing European network, the project is well-positioned to deliver lasting impact in its final phase and beyond.
