This report aims to contribute to understanding and debate of the implications of UNESCO’s 2005 Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expression, to which Australia became a signatory in 2009.

The focus of the report is on maximising opportunities for Australia to strengthen relationships with the countries of Asia. It finds that leveraging language, research and cultural capabilities will provide the basis for deep, long-term engagement that will return social, economic and political benefits to Australia and its partners in the region.