ABSTRACT
This chapter explores an integrated approach for Japanese public diplomacy in Europe through public-private partnerships. It examines the potential of the Japan Foundation as a central public diplomacy actor, facilitating a Public-Private Partnership Platform among actors and institutions in charge of Japanese cultural promotion.
The chapter observes essential Japanese, French and Bulgarian actors with potential for future cooperation with the Japan Foundation through public-private partnerships. Through qualitative personal interviews of the author with French and Bulgarian government officials, scholars, young and middle-aged generation representatives, the study examines the image of Japan and the future expectations from Japan in France and Bulgaria. It reveals certain cultural aspects and less explored areas of Japanese soft power, which could be further introduced for increasing Japan’s presence in the areas. On the basis of the findings, the chapter suggests specific project proposals for integrated public diplomacy initiatives in France and Bulgaria through a Public-Private Partnership Platform facilitated by the Japan Foundation.
