ICR Research Information

Research and strategy on international cultural relations, soft power, and digital influence. International Cultural Relations (ICR) offers research-led consultancy services to Ministries of Foreign Affairs, National Institutes of Culture, universities, multilateral organisations, development agencies, cultural, sporting bodies, and the vast range of more informal organisations who work and engage internationally. We work in the areas of foreign policy and diplomacy, international representation, communication and exchange. We have a specific commitment to the development of the international and multi-stakeholder partnerships and networks needed to deliver the Sustainable Development Goals. We have expertise in the whole spectrum of international relations policy in a fast-changing, complex and often fragmented world, including Agenda 2030, foreign and development policy, and the role of education and culture in external affairs . We base this on our expertise and experience in both practice and theory. We work across the whole spectrum of practice, from diplomacy, through soft power, public diplomacy and strategic communications, to international cultural relations between independent educational and cultural organisations. We also have the theoretical and methodological rigour to support innovation and improvement from our networks and partnerships with world-leading academic institutions. This ability to bridge practice and theory means that we are aware of the needs and challenges of those charged with implementation. We work closely with clients to ensure that we meet their needs. Our insights identify priorities, anticipate and manage risks, and bring effective, efficient, and sustainable solutions. We are committed to working with data and evidence within an ethical research framework. We publish reports, comment on developments, and review the latest publications to help share knowledge about the field and support both other researchers.