Ambassador Bakota opened by examining Croatia’s longstanding approach to cultural diplomacy, describing it as a decisive instrument in strengthening international cooperation, building trust among partners, and projecting a constructive image of the country abroad. He referred to cultural diplomacy not as a peripheral activity, but as “a strategic pillar of foreign policy,” central to shaping narratives, opening channels of communication, and promoting peace through understanding. In this sense, he emphasized that cultural diplomacy is essential for states of all sizes, particularly in a fragmented global environment.

To place today’s developments into perspective, the ambassador referenced Francis Fukuyama’s seminal writings, noting that the assumption of a static, post-Cold-War global order no longer corresponds to current realities. The world, he argued, is undergoing a fundamental transformation, one defined by shifting power dynamics, regional conflicts, and contested norms. In Europe, this evolution is particularly visible in the realm of security—an area in which cooperation and long-term strategic thinking are increasingly required.

Ambassador Bakota devoted a significant part of his address to analyzing the changing security landscape of the European Union. Historically, NATO was the primary guarantor of European territorial security. However, he argued that recent crises have underscored the necessity for the European Union to enhance its defense capabilities and design itself as a more autonomous and resilient security actor. This does not imply replacing NATO, he clarified, but rather strengthening Europe’s ability to contribute meaningfully to its own stability.

He also drew attention to the ongoing debates surrounding reform of the United Nations, and particularly the UN Security Council, calling them essential discussions if the international system is to function effectively in a rapidly evolving world.

Ambassador Bakota presented Croatia as a unique example of political and social transformation. It is the only country that experienced war in the 1990s and, within a single generation, succeeded in joining both the European Union and NATO. The ambassador described Croatia as a Mediterranean gateway for Central Europe, and an active contributor to European cooperation.

He highlighted Croatia’s experience as both an inspiration and a practical model for countries in the Western Balkans, and potentially for Ukraine, which currently faces the challenge of defending its sovereignty while aspiring to EU and NATO membership. Croatia’s path, he said, symbolizes “the willingness of a nation to commit to reforms, uphold democratic principles, and pursue integration despite immense difficulties.”

Beyond Croatia’s European commitments, Ambassador Bakota emphasized the country’s growing interest in a multivectoral foreign policy. While firmly anchored in the European Union, Croatia is increasingly seeking engagement with Asia and the Global South, promoting cooperation across continents and reinforcing its presence in global diplomatic networks.

He stressed that domestic transformation remains vital, particularly in relation to Croatia’s neighbors in the Western Balkans, a region that constitutes both a foreign policy priority and a geographic reality for the country. Stability, connectivity, and cooperation in this area, he added, are indispensable for broader European peace.

Following his keynote speech, Ambassador Bakota participated in a question-and-answer session with ICD master’s students from around the world. The discussion explored Croatia’s rapid transition from a post-conflict state to a member of the EU and NATO, the geopolitical importance of Central Europe, and the pressures that crises exert on national decision-making.

The ambassador spoke at length about the need to balance geopolitical and geoeconomic goals, stressing that crises often push governments toward urgent decisions, which must nonetheless be guided by strategic considerations. He also detailed Croatia’s experience in peaceful reintegration, its contributions to UN peacekeeping operations, and the country’s commitment to international cooperation as essential pillars of its diplomatic identity.

A major theme during the dialogue was the importance of the rule of law—which Ambassador Bakota described as the primary safeguard against populism and the rise of authoritarian tendencies. He underlined that democratic credibility depends on resilience, strong institutions, and a legal framework that protects citizens from manipulative narratives.

Addressing the younger generation, the ambassador urged students not to be misled by the allure of “quick solutions”. Foreign policy, he said, is a marathon rather than a sprint: complex, long-term, and rarely offering perfect answers. He encouraged them to cultivate patience, analytical rigor, and a deep understanding of global affairs.

Ambassador Gordon Bakota’s contribution to the Forum on Democracy and Peace reinforced the vital role of cultural diplomacy in shaping a world marked by uncertainty and geopolitical flux. His testimony highlighted Croatia’s significant achievements, its role as a model for democratic transition, and its commitment to both European integration and global engagement. For the ICD audience, his message was a reminder that diplomacy—when grounded in culture, cooperation, and long-term strategy—remains a cornerstone of international peace.