Digital Soft Power and Cultural Diplomacy in the Age of Algorithms: Global Forum in Toronto, October 2025

Omran Aburayya
May 20
2 min read

In an era where algorithms shape narratives and digital platforms influence global perceptions, the Canadian Center for Cultural Diplomacy (CCCD) is convening a pivotal forum titled "Digital Soft Power and Cultural Diplomacy in the Age of Algorithms". Scheduled for October 2025 in Toronto, Canada, this one-day hybrid event aims to explore the evolving intersections of technology, culture, and diplomacy.

🌐 Forum Overview

Date: October 2025
Location: Toronto, Canada (Hybrid: In-Person & Online)
Organized by: Canadian Center for Cultural Diplomacy (CCCD)
Capacity: 200 participants
Funding: Fully and Partially Funded Scholarships available
Application Deadline: August 20, 2025

This high-level, interdisciplinary platform will bring together policymakers, digital strategists, scholars, and cultural actors to critically examine how digital technologies are reshaping soft power and cultural diplomacy.

🎯 Forum Objectives

Analyze the impact of digital platforms and algorithms on cultural narratives and soft power dynamics.
Identify strategies for ethical and inclusive digital diplomacy.
Highlight successful digital cultural diplomacy initiatives globally and regionally.
Build a global network of experts and emerging leaders in tech and cultural diplomacy.

🗣️ Key Panels

Panel 1: Algorithms of Influence – Redefining Soft Power in the Digital Age

Focus Areas:
- The role of platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and X/Twitter in public diplomacy.
- Algorithmic bias and cultural representation.
- Governments and influencers as digital actors in foreign policy.
Speakers: Experts from tech diplomacy, academia, the UN, and global media.
Moderator: A tech-savvy cultural policy expert.

Panel 2: Cultural Diplomacy – Building Intercultural Dialogue Through Digital Engagement

Focus Areas:
- Successful digital diplomacy campaigns from the Middle East and beyond.
- Virtual museums, metaverse diplomacy, and gamification.
- Ethics, misinformation, and narrative control.
Speakers: A VR/AR developer, cultural attaché, youth activist, and AI ethics expert.
Moderator: A senior digital policy researcher.

🎉 Gala Reception

An evening of music and formal networking, bringing together diplomats, government officials, academics, business leaders, and students. This event fosters intercultural dialogue and collaboration through art, music, and conversation.

💼 Participation & Funding

Total Participants: 200
Fully Funded Spots: 10 international participants (includes flight, accommodation, meals, and forum access).
Partially Funded Spots: 20 participants (includes accommodation and forum access).
Registration Fee: $50 USD

✅ Eligibility Criteria

Age: 18 years and above.
Background: Students or professionals in International Relations, Communication, Cultural Studies, Diplomacy, Technology, Social Sciences, Media, Arts, or related fields.
Language: Proficiency in English.
Motivation: Demonstrated interest in digital platforms, public diplomacy, or cross-cultural initiatives.

📝 Application Process

Complete the application form available on the CCCD Website
Submit a motivation letter detailing your interest and potential contribution to the forum theme.
Provide relevant academic or professional credentials.
Pay the registration fee of $50 USD.

Selection Criteria:

Clarity and authenticity of the motivation letter.
Relevance of interest and potential contribution to the forum theme.
Leadership potential and social impact capacity.
Commitment to inclusion, ensuring gender, geographic, and professional diversity.
Priority consideration for youth, women, and individuals from underrepresented or marginalized communities.