On Tuesday, October 21, British Ambassador Matt Field led a discussion for students at the University of West Bohemia. He explained to students how diplomatic work is changing in today's unstable world. "I will talk here about diplomacy and the incredible, unstable times we are going through," said the ambassador.
In a packed classroom on Jungmannova Street in the city center, Matthew Field shared his own path to diplomacy, which began with studies in religious studies and Japanese studies, through experiences in several countries, to his current position in the Czech Republic. He emphasized that an interest in the world around you and a willingness to learn from different experiences are key to working as a diplomat. "It took me a long time to find my way to this job, to this career, and to diplomacy in general," he admitted.
The ambassador also discussed changes in diplomatic practice: how new technologies, social networks, and public engagement are used to promote foreign policy. Students learned that diplomacy today is not just about working between different governments, but also about actively interacting with the public and using so-called soft power, which includes cultural and economic influences.
The discussion also included examples from work on the international stage, where Matt Field emphasized the importance of connectivity and rapid response to global events, including pandemics or crises such as the conflict in Ukraine. Students were able to ask about personal experiences and specific diplomatic situations, which led to a lively discussion.
The meeting took place as part of a Day with the British Embassy in Pilsen, which included a presentation of British culture, a display of a historic Spitfire aircraft, and tea with the ambassador. Unlike this public event, which took place on Republic Square, the discussion was closed, intended only for UWB students and staff.
University-wide |
Kateřina Dobrovolná |
22. 10. 2025 |
