Deadline: 27-Aug-2026
Asia-Europe Cultural Diplomacy Lab 2026 is an international programme that brings together arts and cultural professionals, practitioners, policymakers, and institutional representatives to explore new approaches to cultural diplomacy and international cultural cooperation. The programme focuses on creating more sustainable, ethical, inclusive, and reciprocal relationships between Asia and Europe through arts and culture.
The initiative supports mid-career professionals by providing opportunities for knowledge exchange, capacity building, networking, and collaboration across cultural sectors.
Overview of ASEF LinkUp 2026
ASEF LinkUp is designed as a cultural diplomacy laboratory where participants can examine existing approaches to international cultural relations and develop new models based on cooperation, equality, and long-term partnerships.
The programme encourages participants to:
- Explore innovative approaches to cultural diplomacy.
- Strengthen connections between arts communities and policymakers.
- Develop sustainable international cultural collaborations.
- Exchange knowledge and professional experiences.
- Build a long-term community of practice across Asia and Europe.
The programme creates a platform where cultural professionals can collaborate beyond traditional institutional boundaries.
Key Focus Areas of the Programme
Sustainable Cultural Relations
ASEF LinkUp promotes approaches that support long-term and meaningful cultural partnerships.
Participants explore:
- Sustainable models for international cultural cooperation.
- Responsible approaches to cultural exchange.
- Long-term relationship building between communities and institutions.
Ethics and Equity in Cultural Diplomacy
The programme examines how cultural relations can become more inclusive and balanced.
Key discussions include:
- Equal partnerships between countries and regions.
- Representation of diverse cultural voices.
- Ethical engagement with local communities.
- Fair participation in international cultural projects.
Arts and Public Sector Collaboration
The initiative connects creative professionals with policymakers and institutions involved in cultural diplomacy.
Participants learn how to:
- Develop collaborative cultural projects.
- Bridge the gap between artists and government institutions.
- Create stronger partnerships between cultural sectors and public agencies.
Capacity Building and Professional Networking
The programme helps participants strengthen their professional skills through:
- Peer learning.
- Expert discussions.
- Collaborative activities.
- International networking opportunities.
Objectives of ASEF LinkUp
The programme aims to:
- Strengthen international cultural cooperation between Asia and Europe.
- Support professionals working in cultural diplomacy.
- Encourage innovative approaches to cultural exchange.
- Develop a global network of cultural relations practitioners.
- Create ongoing collaboration through a community of practice.
Who Is Eligible?
Applications are open to mid-career cultural practitioners and professionals working in international cultural relations.
Eligible applicants should:
- Be citizens of an Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) partner country.
- Have professional experience in arts, culture, or international cultural cooperation.
- Demonstrate interest in developing cultural exchange and dialogue.
- Be committed to equitable and reciprocal cultural relationships.
- Show willingness to engage with professionals from different disciplines and regions.
Applicants may include:
- Artists and cultural practitioners.
- Cultural managers.
- Arts organization representatives.
- Cultural policy professionals.
- Institutional representatives involved in international cultural relations.
Why This Programme Matters
International cultural relations play an important role in building understanding, cooperation, and connections between societies.
ASEF LinkUp supports professionals by helping them:
- Expand international networks.
- Develop new approaches to cultural diplomacy.
- Understand different cultural perspectives.
- Create more inclusive cultural partnerships.
- Collaborate with professionals across Asia and Europe.
The programme recognizes that cultural diplomacy is not only led by governments but also shaped by artists, communities, and cultural organizations.
How the Programme Works
Selected participants will take part in activities focused on learning, collaboration, and exchange.
Step 1: Professional Exchange and Dialogue
Participants engage with:
- Cultural practitioners.
- Policymakers.
- Institutional representatives.
- International cooperation experts.
Step 2: Exploring New Cultural Diplomacy Approaches
Participants examine:
- Traditional models of cultural diplomacy.
- Challenges in international cultural relations.
- New methods for inclusive collaboration.
Step 3: Building International Networks
Participants develop connections with:
- Arts communities.
- Cultural organizations.
- Professionals from Asia and Europe.
Step 4: Continuing Collaboration
After the programme, participants become part of a growing community of practice supporting future cultural diplomacy initiatives.
Selection Priorities
Applicants will be considered based on their:
- Experience in cultural practice or international cultural relations.
- Commitment to international cooperation.
- Interest in inclusive and sustainable cultural exchange.
- Ability to contribute to cross-cultural dialogue.
- Potential to apply learning in future projects.
Application Tips
Applicants can strengthen their applications by:
- Clearly explaining their role in cultural relations.
- Highlighting previous international collaborations.
- Demonstrating interest in Asia-Europe cultural cooperation.
- Explaining how the programme will support their professional goals.
- Showing commitment to long-term cultural partnerships.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is ASEF LinkUp | Asia-Europe Cultural Diplomacy Lab 2026?
ASEF LinkUp is an international cultural diplomacy programme that connects arts professionals, policymakers, and institutions to develop new approaches to cultural cooperation between Asia and Europe.
Who can apply for ASEF LinkUp 2026?
The programme is open to mid-career cultural practitioners and professionals involved in international cultural relations who are citizens of Asia-Europe Meeting partner countries.
What fields are suitable for applicants?
Applicants may come from arts, culture, cultural management, policymaking, and international cultural cooperation backgrounds.
What topics will participants explore?
Participants will explore sustainability, ethics, equity, cultural diplomacy innovation, arts-policy collaboration, and international cultural exchange.
Is ASEF LinkUp only for government representatives?
No. The programme welcomes cultural practitioners, arts professionals, policymakers, and institutional representatives.
What is the community of practice created through the programme?
The community of practice is a long-term network connecting professionals involved in cultural diplomacy and international cultural cooperation.
Why should cultural professionals apply?
The programme provides opportunities to build international networks, gain new perspectives, strengthen skills, and develop future cultural collaboration projects.
Conclusion
ASEF LinkUp | Asia-Europe Cultural Diplomacy Lab 2026 provides a valuable platform for cultural professionals seeking to reshape international cultural relations through collaboration, inclusion, and innovation. By connecting arts practitioners, policymakers, and institutions across Asia and Europe, the programme supports the development of more sustainable and equitable cultural diplomacy practices for the future.
For more information, visit Asia-Europe Foundation.