Ph.D., Associate Professor, National Academy of Culture and Arts

Abstract

The purpose of the article. International relations often are widely perceived as purely political phenomenon. However, more extensive and complex mechanisms, regulating the process of international relations between states are hidden behind it. In modern Ukraine cultural policy and cultural diplomacy are not appreciated completely as part of this process. The research is devoted to defining the role and current state of cultural policy as an important component of international relations of Ukraine at the present stage. The research methodology combines analytical, comparative and historical methods, allowing to analyze and define the role of cultural policy for the formation of the country's image in the world. Scientific novelty of the research is that the phenomenon of cultural diplomacy is considered as the mechanism, and the part of cultural policies required to face the current issues in Ukraine. However, until now the significance of this phenomenon, and the opportunity to create via it a positive image of the state is not fully used. Conclusions. Development of an effective state strategy in the field of cultural policy will improve the image of Ukraine as a country with outstanding cultural achievements, will promote cultural cooperation and, consequently, a higher level of international relations.