Impacts of Museums on Global Communication:  Book Launch

By Ms. Maiko Sawada, Adjunct Lecturer at Kanazawa University, Japan CEO, Editor, Cross-Cultural Consultant, and Multimedia Journalist at ebicompany Inc.

Abstract
Impacts of Museums on Global Communication examines the role of museums, particularly grassroots Japanese institutions, in shaping global dialogues on peace, justice and historical reconciliation. 

Focusing on museums that address Japan's colonial past, domestic political divisions, and nuclear taboo, such as those recognized by the Nobel Peace Prize and Hidankyo (the Japanese atomic bomb survivors' organization), this work explores how these institutions contribute to a collective global memory and serve as platforms for grassroots cultural diplomacy. The initiative is particularly important in bridging the gap between the multicultural reality of the classroom and the nationalist history taught in secondary schools.

 In this book, which Maiko Sawada co-edited, 11 experts discuss the cases about countries including India, Russia, Brazil and Europe, offering global perspectives on the role of museums for international relations. This narrative also highlights the critical role of Japanese youth in these museums, particularly through peace culture movements that have advocated for justice and reconciliation in East Asia. Their engagement has had a significant impact on the global agenda, promoting a broader understanding of the tensions rooted in Japan's colonial legacy and its complex relations with neighboring countries. These youth-led initiatives, in both physical and digital spaces, exemplify how museums can empower younger generations to shape global dialogues on peace, justice and historical memory. 

The book also offers insights into the future direction of digital humanities in museums. The integration of digital technologies has enabled museums to expand their reach and offer interactive experiences that engage global audiences in meaningful dialogue about historical wounds and pathways to peace. This work calls for a more inclusive approach to curating global narratives and highlights the importance of youth-led cultural diplomacy in promoting peace and justice across borders

Impacts of Museums on Global Communication 
By Maiko Sawada
IGI Global (Pennsylvania, 2024)