ABSTRACT
Our palates are often the point of entry for learning about different cultures. Today, food has emerged as a catalyst that brings people together. Studies confirm that eating together builds trust. Food has become the new internet, a form of non-verbal communication that connects us globally. This paper distinguishes between culinary diplomacy and gastrodiplomacy. Gastrodiplomacy, a form of citizen food diplomacy, has emerged as a tool for nations to build their reputations. Nations, but especially middle powers, find food a convenient way to set themselves apart through government supported branding programs that are used to promote visibility and support tourism. UNESCO, the UN Economic, Scientific and Cultural Organization, considers food part of a country’s unique intangible cultural heritage. Recognition of a food or national cuisine by UNESCO helps create a valued brand. We also discuss ways citizens can incorporate gastrodiplomacy into their daily food experiences, offering practical examples of different approaches to citizen food diplomacy. Finally, we explore how refugee cooks have become central to the growing interest in gastrodiplomacy, and how it has evolved into what we call social gastronomy, using food to promote social causes. We note that the Covid-19 pandemic has changed the gastrodiplomatic space for the better by bringing those who prepare food closer to the community of consumers and producers. Countries have the opportunity to promote gastrodiplomacy to forge new connections across both the public and private sectors worldwide, expanding our understanding of the diversity of global cuisine.
