Academy for Cultural Diplomacy

04/06/2026

Governance, Memory and History: Historical Knowledge for Peacebuilding, Conflict Prevention and Resolution
Potsdam, Germany | 1–3 June 2026
As our programme in Potsdam draws to a close, one conclusion stands out with clarity: historical understanding is indispensable to governance and peacebuilding.
In a world shaped by conflict, political transition and competing narratives, historical knowledge remains essential for understanding the present and informing responsible engagement with the future. The study of history provides the context necessary for addressing contemporary challenges, strengthening democratic governance and supporting peacebuilding and conflict prevention efforts.
Over three days, we have examined how historical narratives shape public discourse, political decision-making and international relations. The discussions underscored both the opportunities and responsibilities inherent in engaging with the past in an increasingly complex global environment.
We extend our appreciation to all participants and partners for their contributions and for reaffirming the importance of historical understanding in fostering dialogue, cooperation and peace.
We were honoured to welcome the following speakers and contributors:
• Dr Erkki Tuomioja – Founder, Historians Without Borders; Minister of Foreign Affairs of Finland (2000–07 and 2011–15)
• Prof Dr Frank Bösch – Director, Leibniz Centre for Contemporary History (ZZF), Potsdam
• Prof Dr Pertti Grönholm – Member of the Board, Historians Without Borders; Professor of European History and Director of the John Morton Center for North American Studies, University of Turku
• Mikael Kinanen – Secretary-General, Historians Without Borders
• Prof Dr Birgit Schäbler – Professor of Modern Middle Eastern History, University of Erfurt
• Prof Dr Catalin-Stefan Popa – Interim Director-General, Institute for Advanced Studies in Levant Culture and Civilization
• Prof Dr Dalibor Jovanovski – Professor of History, Ss Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje
• Donato Kiniger Passigli – Vice President, World Academy of Art and Science (WAAS)
• Prof Dr Hartmut Berghoff – Director, Institute of Economic and Social History, University of Göttingen
• Prof Dr Jörg Hackmann – Professor of Eastern European History, University of Szczecin
• Prof Dr Ralf Roth – Professor of Modern History, Goethe University Frankfurt
• Prof Dr Ulrich Brückner – EU Jean Monnet Professor, Stanford University in Berlin
• Willem Noë - Former European Commission Official & Senior Policy Advisor on EU Enlargement
• Dr Yossi Beilin – Former Israeli Minister of Justice and Former Deputy Foreign Minister
We also extend our appreciation to Historians Without Borders for its continued partnership and intellectual leadership.

30/05/2026

29/05/2026

29/05/2026

29/05/2026

28/05/2026

Skopje Cultural Diplomacy Forum 2026 | Opening Reception at the Cabinet of the President
www.skopjeculturaldiplomacyforum.org
At the opening event of the Club of Skopje, held under the leadership of President Ivanov, “Skopje Cultural Diplomacy Forum 2026”, the conference participants had the great honour of attending the Welcome Reception and Cocktail hosted by Her Excellency President Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova at the Cabinet of the President, Vila Vodno in Skopje.
This year marks the President’s fourth consecutive year of participation and endorsement of the Skopje Forum, reflecting a sustained commitment to advancing international dialogue and cultural diplomacy at the highest level.
The reception, under the theme “Leadership and Culture as Bridges Between Civilizations”, set an important tone for the days ahead, highlighting the enduring role of cultural dialogue in strengthening mutual understanding across societies.
We extend our appreciation for the hospitality and for the President’s continued engagement with the Forum.
www.clubofskopje.org

18/05/2026

Congratulations to Jack McConnell on His Appointment as Ministerial Adviser on Soft Power and Major Events
It is with the greatest pleasure that we extend our warmest congratulations to Lord Jack McConnell upon his appointment as Ministerial Adviser on Soft Power and Major Events by the Government of the United Kingdom.
Appointed by the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, Lisa Nandy, Lord McConnell shall advise the Department for Culture, Media and Sport on advancing Britain’s international standing through the strategic cultivation of major sporting and cultural occasions, whilst further reinforcing the nation’s economic vitality and global influence. The appointment forms part of a wider national endeavour to secure for the United Kingdom a pre-eminent position in the hosting of distinguished international events.
This honour is both fitting and richly merited. Throughout his public life, Lord McConnell has exemplified a rare combination of statesmanship, intellectual seriousness and international outlook. His instrumental role in securing the 2014 Commonwealth Games for Glasgow stands as an enduring testament to his foresight and capacity to unite civic ambition with international engagement.
For well over fifteen years, we have had the distinct privilege of knowing and collaborating with Jack across numerous international gatherings, conferences, and initiatives. During this time, his counsel, generosity of spirit and steadfast commitment to dialogue amongst nations have been of immeasurable value to our work. Indeed, he belongs to that uncommon cadre of individuals whose encouragement, wisdom and quiet constancy leave an indelible imprint upon the institutions and people fortunate enough to work alongside them. Much of what we have been able to accomplish over the years bears, in no small measure, the imprint of his guidance and support.
At a moment when soft power, cultural diplomacy and international understanding assume ever greater consequence in global affairs, there are few figures more admirably equipped for such a charge. Lord McConnell brings to this role not merely experience, but also gravitas, discernment and an abiding belief in the power of international cooperation.
We extend to Jack our very best wishes for every success in this distinguished new appointment and look forward with great anticipation to following his achievements in this important mission for the United Kingdom.

14/05/2026

Eurasian Economic Summit 2026 (Istanbul; May 11-13th, 2026)
Group Photos with Abdullah Gül (President of Turkey 2007-14), President Gjorge Ivanov and Participants.

12/05/2026

Eurasian Economic Summit 2026 (Istanbul; May 11-13th, 2026)
Group Photos with Mark Donfried, Tasmina Ahmed-Sheikh OBE, Dr. Akkan Suver & Wife, Sezgin Bilgiç, Wife & Daughter, Ghada Chreim Ata, Davor Filipović, Jadranka Kosor, Lord McConnell, Judge Dragoljub Popović, President Ivanov & Wife, Hassan Diab, President Moncef Marzouki, Former SG Mukhisa Kituyi, President Boris Tadić, President Emil Constantinescu, President Stjepan Mesić and Presiddnt Ivo Josipović.

04/05/2026

Launching a New Global Economic Platform in Bavaria
Yesterday in Bavaria, the Aacdemy for Cultural Diplomacy finalised the foundations of its new long-term initiative that will launch this year and lead to the first Hohenschwangau Forum in May 2027.
Building on over 15 years of its Berlin Economic Forum, this initiative establishes a permanent platform for global economic dialogue.
We thank our partners in Bavaria for their support and close cooperation in shaping this next chapter.