Although culture is increasingly recognised as a relevant focus of scholarly analysis, the European Union (EU) has not yet been examined as a global cultural power.

Addressing this gap, this book offers a comprehensive overview of the multiple arenas through which the EU has emerged as a major cultural actor beyond its borders. Focusing on Culture in Foreign Policy and Development, as well as Media and Trade, the book gathers an international team of experts to provide a comprehensive analysis of the EU’s multifaceted cultural action across various policy fields and regions.

The book draws together discussions in cultural studies, cultural policy, international relations, media studies, and law to ask the following questions: What characterises EU cultural and media policies and programmes beyond its borders? What are the assumptions and the goals that underlie such policies and programmes? Suggesting that the EU is beginning to emerge as an enabling power that supports cultural diversity around the world, the volume also reflects on the global role of the EU and contribute to debates regarding the liberal international order by taking a new angle.