The Strategic Framework
The purpose of the strategic framework is to support a coordinated, common direction for Denmark’s international cultural activities, in line with current political priorities. As a general rule, the framework will be revised every two years.
The framework serves to promote
- The government's priorities relating to foreign policy
- Danish cultural export and intercultural dialogue
- Nation branding of Denmark
- The renewal of Danish art and culture through international collaboration
The overarching aim of the strategy for international cultural cooperation is to enhance collaboration between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Culture — across their respective areas and actors — to benefit both the arts and culture, and to strengthen Denmark’s global position.
International cultural collaboration plays an important role in creating and maintaing relations with other countries, as well as in disseminating narratives about Danish strengths and values.
Cultural exchange and collaboration can further enhance the potential of Denmark’s cultural export sector.
Strategic priorities
The strategic priorities for Denmark’s international cultural cooperation for the period 2025–2027, in collaboration between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark and the Ministry of Culture Denmark, are cultural diplomacy and Denmark’s cultural export. Read more about the priorities in the dropdown menu below.
Cultural Diplomacy
The world has become increasingly turbulent and unpredictable. Geopolitical shifts and intensified global strategic competition underscore the growing need for dialogue and cooperation. In this context, art and culture play a vital role. Whether it is about forging new relationships, strengthening existing ones, or navigating difficult conversations, art and culture can help foster mutual understanding and facilitate encounters on equal terms. In an era marked by rising polarization and expanded avenues for the spread of mis- and disinformation, there is an urgent need to reinforce mutual understanding of cultures and values.
In concrete terms, cultural diplomacy may involve supporting major political initiatives abroad and targeted efforts, such as the implementation of broader government strategies, as well as events and activities tied to Danish presidencies, Denmark’s positions in international forums, summits, and more.
It can also encompass cultural or artistic projects that open doors for Danish stakeholders and create space for reflection and dialogue on global societal challenges.
Denmark's Cultural Export
Denmark has a rich and globally oriented professional cultural sector, which is a valuable asset to the Danish economy. At the same time, cultural nation branding of Denmark contributes positively to ongoing efforts in economic diplomacy. Trade and exchange involving culture and the arts serve as valuable tools for strengthening bilateral relations and promoting narratives around the global green transition — for example, within the field of architecture.
Concretely, a prioritized effort to strengthen cultural export should focus on:
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Supporting professional actors in their work to create opportunities and position Danish art and culture at a world-class level
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Creating a space for dialogue to improve coordination and integration between public and private actors and initiatives
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Collaborating with Danish stakeholders abroad to increase international demand for Danish art and culture
Read More
Get a complete overview. Download the strategic framework and view previous allocations.
Read more about the strategic framework here
Strategic framework for the Ministry of Culture Denmark's and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark's international cultural cooperation 2025-2027
Grant overviews
Funding scheme for international cultural collaboration
The Ministry of Culture’s and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ fund for international cultural cooperation aims to secure and support Danish art and cultural collaborations abroad in interaction with the government’s current priorities and foreign policy interests.
The fund supports
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Cultural projects abroad
Applications can be submitted by professional Danish cultural actors at the institutional or organizational level. Danish representations abroad may also apply for projects carried out in cooperation with international partners. Cultural actors are expected to have engaged in prior dialogue with relevant embassies before applying. -
Visiting programs in Denmark
Visiting programs must involve professional artists and cultural actors and be organized in collaboration with Danish cultural actors.
Learn more and submit your application for the fund