His Majesty King Charles III is our new Patron
The British Council has announced His Majesty King Charles III as its new Patron after having served as Vice Patron from 1984 until his Accession. Previously, Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II held this position until her passing in September 2022.
As stated on the British Council webpage: ‘We’re honoured to have the opportunity to continue our work in building connections, understanding and trust between the UK and countries worldwide under his Patronage’.
The British Council, which marks its 90th anniversary in 2024, works in areas that align with many of His Majesty’s long-held interests in cultural protection and heritage, environment, and education projects. Thus, His Majesty has engaged with the organisation over the years and has played a vital role by supporting many British Council projects in the UK and around the world.
In 1984, the day after he took on his Vice-Patron role, he celebrated it by holding a reception in Kensington Palace to commemorate the British Council’s 50th anniversary. His Majesty has also visited British Council projects from Nepal to Nigeria, from Cuba to various European countries such as France, Germany, Uzbekistan, Portugal, Poland, Greece, Italy, Slovenia, Switzerland, and Romania.
Soft power, the British Council, and the monarchy
The British Council defines soft power as ‘A country’s ability to make friends and influence people is through its most attractive assets, including culture, education, language and values’.
The Monarchy has been identified as one of the UK’s most valuable brands, one that encourages tourism, visits, and knowledge about the UK. The British Council has had a long, fond, and fruitful relationship with The Royal Family since the late Queen Elizabeth II was a child, when her father, King George VI, became Patron of the British Council.
The late Queen took on the role of Patron in 1952, the first year of Her late Majesty’s reign, with great interest and energy. Her commitment could be seen in her frequent visits to see the British Council’s work and meet its staff members and partners—in every region—over the following seven decades.
Meanwhile, during his time as Vice Patron, His Majesty King Charles III epitomised soft power with his commitment to long-term relationship building. Now, as Patron, he will continue to play an integral role in attracting attention to the UK and maintaining its profile on the world stage.