CULTURAL DIPLOMACY WITHIN THE SCO: LEGAL BASIS, MECHANISMS AND PROBLEMS OF IMPLEMENTATION

Abstract

Cultural diplomacy is one of the key instruments of the foreign policy of many states, including the SCO member states. Its main goal is to strengthen friendly relations, enhance cultural exchange and cooperation between countries. The paper analyzes the legal documents that define the foundations of cultural diplomacy in the SCO, as well as explores the mechanisms for its implementation, including organizational measures, activities and programs. Particular attention is paid to the role of cultural diplomacy in the development of cooperation between the SCO member states. It helps to strengthen cultural ties, promotes the development of tourism and business, improves mutual understanding and trust between peoples. The authors of the article draw attention to the existing problems and shortcomings in the implementation of cultural diplomacy, which, if maximized, can prevent the process itself from developing steadily and bringing tangible results for the foreign policy of the SCO countries in the space of the organization. Among the important problems are the lack of a legal framework for organizing cultural diplomacy within the SCO, the lack of a legal explanation for the very concept of "cultural diplomacy", the concentration of the process specifically on the more developed SCO countries, the lack of a unified strategy or plan for the implementation of cultural diplomacy within the organization, the influence of world politics trends. Further, the article outlines promising solutions for increasing the level of interaction between countries through cultural diplomacy. They are aimed at eradicating the shortcomings that exist in the implementation of cultural diplomacy. Among the prospects for the development of cultural diplomacy is the expansion of the legal framework, which will allow cultural diplomacy to cover an even wider range of issues. The authors believe that it is necessary to further expand the areas of cultural cooperation in the SCO space. The use of the cultural, spiritual and educational potential of the SCO countries within the framework of interstate relations should become a foreign policy task for them.