A curated selection of public diplomacy-relevant news from a global cross-section of English-language media outlets, including independent, corporate-owned, and state-sponsored sources. The stories featured don't necessarily represent CPD's views nor have they been verified by CPD.
Cultural Agency Doles Out Awards to Those Promoting Japan
Twelve distinguished figures, including eight foreigners, received awards Friday from the Cultural Affairs Agency for their efforts in cultural exchange and promotion of Japanese culture abroad. At a ceremony in Tokyo, Agency Commissioner Seiichi Kondo presented seven of the recipients with the “commissioner’s awards,” which commend the work of individuals involved in long-term promotion of Japanese culture overseas.
Fascinating Nigeria: Alluring Sights, Sounds of Unique Country
A new vista will be opened in the country’s culture and tourism annals on Thursday when ‘Fascinating Nigeria’, the nation’s new brand identity is launched in Abuja. Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation is blessed with a rich culture, the main driver of tourism. From north to south, east to west, Nigeria is a study in cultural diversity that sadly, has not been properly harnessed over time to generate money and create jobs.
Where Did our Winning Spirit Go?
South Africa’s position in the Global Competitiveness Index has remained virtually stagnant in the bottom third out of 144 countries. The ranking of our micro-economic environment has deteriorated from 43rd to 69th and of our Labour Market Efficiency from 97th to 113th. Our higher education ranking has deteriorated from 75th to 84th – not surprisingly, as the threshold to exit high school is an embarrassing 30 percent.
Cambodia Overturns Ban on Foreign Radio Programs
Cambodia has overturned a much-criticized order banning local radio stations from broadcasting foreign programs ahead of general elections. The Ministry of Information said in a statement late Saturday that it was reversing the June 25 directive following "requests" but did not elaborate.
Saudi Arabia Court Jails Seven Facebook Cyber Activists
A court in Saudi Arabia has sentenced seven cyber activists to between five to 10 years in prison for inciting protests, mainly by using Facebook. The men were arrested in September last year, according to Human Rights Watch (HRW), and their trial began in April.
Petrocaribe Summit in Nicaragua Ends
Heads of state of Petrocaribe nations have ended a summit in Nicaragua with agreements to promote a regional economic bloc to increase the flow of food and services among member nations. Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega said Saturday that summit participants decided to create working groups in transportation and communications, productive alliances, tourism, trade and commercial facilities to go "beyond the false concepts of free trade."
Iraq’s Baby Noor: Donors, Soldier Step up So a ‘Miracle’ is Not Unfinished
No one ever doubted that saving Noor's life was a good thing. But was there any thought put into what would happen afterward to her and the family? Should she have been brought to America and then returned to a place like Iraq, where medical care was next to nothing and where her family paid a price for accepting help from Americans?
Andrew Pochter’s Death a Setback for Public Diplomacy in the Middle East
Pochter’s death, while certainly a personal tragedy for all those who knew him, also reflects a broader loss for the United States and the troubled Middle East. As ongoing violence in the region threatens to dissuade interested, energetic students from traveling to countries like Egypt, both places stand to lose some of their most valuable ambassadors in bridging the two cultures and promoting genuine understanding.
Pages
Visit CPD's Online Library
Explore CPD's vast online database featuring the latest books, articles, speeches and information on international organizations dedicated to public diplomacy.