LONDON – The UK government has unveiled the Soft Power Council, a new initiative aimed at leveraging the nation’s cultural and creative industries to drive economic growth and enhance global security.
“Soft power is fundamental to the UK’s impact and reputation around the world,” said Foreign Secretary David Lammy at the launch on Friday. “Harnessing soft power effectively can help to build relationships, deepen trust, enhance our security, and drive economic growth.”
The council, co-chaired by Lammy and Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport Lisa Nandy, brings together experts in culture, sport, creative industries, and geopolitics. It will coordinate efforts to maximize the global impact of British assets like music, sports, and education, which rank the UK among the top three nations in major soft power indices.
“From the Premier League and Peaky Blinders to Adele and the BBC World Service, Britain’s cultural exports showcase the best of Britain around the world,” said Nandy. “We are determined to strengthen our soft power abroad and deliver a major boost to our economy.”
The launch coincides with Nandy’s announcement of a £60 million funding boost for cultural organizations and creative businesses. The funding, part of the government’s Plan for Change, aims to scale up industries and drive economic opportunity across the UK.
Baroness Chapman, the Minister for Latin America, the Caribbean, and Soft Power, emphasized the strategic importance of the initiative. “The UK’s soft power is one of our greatest national assets,” she said. “This council will celebrate and maximize our best assets to support economic growth and our international priorities.”
The council will meet four times a year and work closely with the government’s GREAT campaign to align foreign policy, cultural, and sporting initiatives, amplifying the UK’s global influence and partnerships.
