What role for culture in sustainable development? The contribution of cultural diplomacy: The IIC of Beijing

Abstract

In recent years, there has been growing recognition of the importance of culture in sustainable development, although it continues to be overshadowed by the economic, social, and environmental pillars. Often referred to as the "missing pillar," culture’s impact is more challenging to quantify compared to the other dimensions of sustainability, which has led to its marginalization in formal frameworks. This thesis seeks to demonstrate how culture, particularly through the mechanisms of cultural diplomacy, acts as both a "driver" and an "enabler" of sustainable progress. Drawing on evidence from interviews conducted with UNESCO representatives and a case study conducted at the Italian Cultural Institute of Beijing, the research reveals how culture shapes community behaviors, values, and social norms, influencing approaches to environmental care, economic practices, and social cohesion. The findings highlight the multifaceted role culture plays. Firstly, through education and intercultural dialogue, culture promotes peace—a fundamental requirement for sustainable development. Moreover, traditional knowledge and cultural heritage offer key insights into environmental sustainability, such as community-based land management and sustainable agricultural methods. Lastly, cultural heritage and creative industries, facilitated by diplomatic cultural exchange, make significant contributions to economic growth, particularly in sectors like tourism, arts, and design. This thesis aims to demonstrate how cultural diplomacy and these broader cultural contributions align with various Sustainable Development Goals, while also stressing the need to raise awareness among global policymakers and institutions. By providing concrete examples of culture’s role in driving development, this work aspires to contribute to the growing movement that advocates for the formal inclusion of culture as a central pillar of sustainability.