Institute for Cultural Diplomacy, icd Institute for Cultural Diplomacy In the current increasingly globalized world, individuals, corporations and governments from across the globe are becoming more integrated than ever before and have the ability to exchange information faster and more efficiently; Thus, inter-cultural relations have become increasingly important in the 21st century. Cultural diplomacy has long been recognized as a prime instrument to promote international links and understanding between countries and peoples; The Institute for Cultural Diplomacy was founded with this aim in mind. Founded in 1999, the Institute for Cultural Diplomacy (ICD) is an international, not-for-profit, non-governmental organization with headquarters in Berlin (since 2003), and the USA. “The ICD´s ultimate goal is to promote global peace and stability by strengthening and supporting intercultural relations at all levels.” Philosophy The ICD understands that in an increasingly globalized world, in which people are able to travel and exchange information faster than ever before, there is a growing interdependency between nations. As a result, successful inter-cultural interaction will undoubtedly become a major challenge for international relations in the 21st century. In this regard, the ICD believes that inter- and intra-cultural relations can be strengthened and maintained through dialogue. This, in turn, leads to a better understanding and greater trust between cultures, prevent misunderstanding, improve communication and cooperation and help to reduce the likelihood of socio-cultural conflicts. Role & Mission The major objectives of the ICD are to extend current research, programs and practices in the field of cultural diplomacy and create a platform to promote and sustain inter-cultural dialogue at all levels. The ICD actively encourages and supports cultural diplomacy as an academic discipline. ICD Activity & Methodology (More) » Over the past decade the ICD has grown to become one of Europe's largest independent cultural exchange organizations, hosting programs that facilitate interaction among individuals of all cultural, academic, and professional backgrounds, from across the world. The Institute for Cultural Diplomacy’s primary activity focuses on the development and the promotion of the field of Cultural Diplomacy with the aim to raise awareness and understanding of the field across the globe both locally and internationally; The ICD works continuously to develop new and innovative initiatives of cultural diplomacy. In addition to promoting cultural diplomacy through its own initiatives, the ICD also promotes cultural diplomacy by actively supporting the work that is already being done in this area by partnering and communicating with other actors in the field. The ICD activities are implemented and executed by its four main institutions: the Academy for Cultural Diplomacy, the Organization for Youth Education & Development (OYED), the Inter Parliamentary Alliance for Human Rights & Global Peace (IPAHP) and the ICD House of Arts & Culture.