Commission on Devolution and Diplomacy
The Commission on Devolution and Diplomacy is a research and engagement programme partnership between City-REDI, Invest in UK University R&D Midlands and Groundwork Research, designed to explore the evolving role of place, diplomacy, and soft power in the context of English devolution.
Background
As sub-national governance structures such as Mayoral Combined Authorities (MCAs) gain prominence, there is a growing need to understand how local actors—particularly universities and local governments—can leverage soft power to shape economic, social, and international agendas. The programme will investigate how place-based diplomacy can be harnessed to foster international collaboration, attract investment, and enhance civic identity. It will also examine the strategic role of universities as anchor institutions in sub-national diplomacy, contributing to local innovation ecosystems, global engagement, and policy influence. Through original research, expert interviews, and stakeholder engagement, this programme will generate actionable insights and practical tools to support policymakers, civic leaders, and academic institutions in building effective place-based strategies for soft power and diplomacy.
Timescales: September 2025 – May 2026
Objectives
Objectives
- To map and analyse the current landscape of place-based diplomacy and soft power across English regions, with a focus on the role of universities and sub-national governments in the Midlands in particular.
- To identify best practices and innovative models of collaboration between local authorities, universities, and international partners.
- To assess the maturity and effectiveness of existing partnerships, such as city twinning and international academic collaborations, across different places in England.
- To provide evidence-based recommendations for enhancing the strategic use of soft power and diplomacy at the sub-national level.
- To support advocacy efforts aimed at influencing national policy (e.g. DSIT, DBT, DfE) and strengthening the role of local actors in the UK’s international engagement strategy.
The Team
The Team
Jack Shaw, Groundwork Research (Lead)
Alex Favier, Invest in UK University R&D Midlands Campaign
Patrick Diamond, Queen Mary University of London
Rebecca Riley, City-REDI, The University of Birmingham
Fumi Kitagawa, City-REDI, The University of Birmingham
Charlotte Hoole, City-REDI, The University of Birmingham
Chloe Billing, City-REDI, The University of Birmingham
Sam Markey, Recurve
Iona Clark and Nick King, Henham Strategy
Andrew Stevens, Centre for Urban and Regional Development Studies and Japan Local Government Centre
Project lead contact details:
Jack Shaw (Project Lead) - jack.shaw@groundworkresearch.co.uk
Project Support contact details:
Selina Soomal - s.soomal@bham.ac.uk
The Advisory Board
The Advisory Board
Claire Ward, Mayor of the East Midlands Combined County Authority (co-Chair)
Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands Combined Authority (co-Chair)
Rt Hon Greg Clark, Executive Chair of the University of Warwick Innovation District
Professor Duncan Ivison, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Manchester
Laura Citron OBE, CEO of London and Partners
Neil Rami, CEO of the West Midlands Growth Company
Joe Manning, CEO of MIDAS
Rachel Sandison OBE, Scottish Government Trade and Investment Envoy for International Education and Deputy Vice Chancellor at the University of Glasgow
Catriona Laing DL, Senior Responsible Officer, Soft Power Council
Chris Barton, Director - Local and International Growth, Department for Business and Trade