On Tuesday 4 March, the British Council launched Counterpoint’s latest publication Options for Influence. The event was held at the Royal Society for the encouragement of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce (RSA).

Host John Worne, Director of Strategy and External Relations, gave an introduction in which he outlined the importance of cultural relations in the challenges of today’s international environment. After a brief presentation on Options for Influence by Ali Fisher, Matthew Taylor, Chief Executive of the RSA, introduced the other panellists: Dame Sandra Burslem, an educationalist and civil service commissioner, and consultant psychiatrist Nicholas Beecroft, who is working with the Royal Navy and the Army and has a special interest in foreign affairs. Both provided an analysis of the practical implications of the ideas outlined in the book.
The audience were a mix of practitioners in the field of public diplomacy. International and national representatives from embassies, high commissions, cultural institutes and related organisations debated the applicability of a long-term strategy based on trust, mutuality and reciprocity from their respective perspectives.

If you would like more information about the event and how to get a copy of Options for Influence, please contact us counterpoint@britishcouncil.org