Cultural Studies paper by Magyar, Kálmán
American Hungarian Cultural Diplomacy; Lessons and Proposals.
Type of Abstract (select):Abstract (max. 250 words):
Cultural Diplomacy is a concerted effort of a nation to supplement its traditional diplomatic mission and establish a positive image and favourably influence the opinion of a host country about its cultural values. Cultural Diplomacy should be a facet of every nation’s diplomatic strategy, because a person’s understanding of a nation’s heritage and cultural treasures are formed primarily through the arts and cultural communication channels. This, in turn, becomes the groundwork for the opinions and general images about a specific Nation and its people in the minds of the host country’s general population.
There is a long history underlying Hungarian Cultural Diplomacy in North America, warranting a closer study than this Paper provides. However, this history – and the lessons of the past – should be kept in-mind when planning future Cultural Diplomacy strategies. As a general overview, therefore, we will summarize Hungarian Cultural Diplomacy in North America relative to the recent historical time period, that is, the communist occupation of Hungary from 1945 to 1989 and the following 20 years.
Brief Professional Bio (max. 100 words):
Kalman Magyar, is the Director of American Hungarian Folklore Centrum, NJ. He has been involved in Hungarian Cultural Diplomacy for 50 years as member of the Hungarian community and also as a professional Art Manager. He has participated in the facilitation of the Hungarian Cultural Center, New York at its formation and the following 2 years.