Cinema and Public Diplomacy is a four-day short course designed to explore the powerful intersection between cinema, culture, and international relations. Bringing together leading academics and industry practitioners, the course examines how film serves as a strategic tool for public diplomacy, cultural diplomacy, nation branding, and soft power. Participants will gain both theoretical knowledge and practical insights into how cinematic storytelling shapes global perceptions, influences international audiences, and contributes to a country’s image on the world stage.
The programme will be held from 15–23 July 2026, with sessions taking place from 5.00 p.m. to 7.30 p.m.
Throughout the programme, participants will explore the foundations of public diplomacy, understand cinema as an instrument of soft power, examine real-world case studies of cultural diplomacy, and learn how ethical and culturally sensitive storytelling can strengthen international engagement.
Whether you are a student, diplomat, public official, communication professional, filmmaker, researcher, or simply interested in the role of culture in global affairs, this course offers a unique opportunity to learn from distinguished experts and gain a deeper understanding of how cinema influences diplomacy and international relations.
🎬 Register now and be part of the conversation.
🔗 Registration Link: https://forms.gle/o8hPAV8u2bNLsbaE8
For more details: 011 2621109 | 0112682111 | 0764890574
Meet our trainers
Course Schedule
15 July 2026
Introduction to Public Diplomacy
Lecturer: Dr. George Cooke – Diplomatic Historian and Strategist
16 July 2026
Cinema as Soft Power: National Image, Identity and Representation
Lecturer: Mr. Boopathy Nalin Wickramag – Screenwriter, Film Critic, and Visiting Lecturer at the University of Visual and Performing Arts
22 July 2026
Cinema and Cultural Diplomacy: Case Studies
Lecturer: Mr. Boopathy Nalin Wickramage – Screenwriter, Film Critic, and Visiting Lecturer at the University of Visual and Performing Arts
23 July 2026
Ethics, Cultural Sensitivities and Practical Applications
Lecturer: Prof. Indika Ferdinando – National and International Award-Winning Sri Lankan Theatre Practitioner and Filmmaker, Dean of the Faculty of Graduate Studies at the University of the Visual and Performing Arts, and Professor in the Faculty of Dance and Drama.