GASTRODIPLOMACY, FOOD COMMUNICATION AND MORE. REVIEW OF THE BOOK TRIPTYCH BY V. CHEKALIUK "FOOD AS COMMUNICATION", "TASTEFUL COMMUNICATION", "TASTY COMMUNICATION"

Abstract

In the books of V. Chekaliuk, food is considered as a multifaceted, multivalent phenomenon inherent in human life, satisfying not only physiological needs. It is shown that food is a sphere of creativity and self-actualization, a means of communication, forming the image of a person and a state, which has become a tool of international interaction in world politics - gastrodiplomacy. The possibilities and examples of using food for the development of non-verbal communication in relationships between people, in various life situations are presented. To improve communication skills, a metaphorical board game developed by the author is proposed. The informal presentation of the material makes these publications accessible to a wide range of readers, creates the possibility of their inclusion in public diplomacy at various levels. The phenomenon of gastrodiplomacy is considered as an innovative tool of public diplomacy in the context of world theories of "soft power" and intercultural communication, in particular through the current practices of culinary influence, initiated by Talleyrand. Food is positioned as a universal "language" capable of enhancing diplomatic signals and interpersonal trust. The review presents an overview of the content, an interdisciplinary analysis, and identifies the significance of the books for international relations specialists, cultural attachés, and communication strategists, students.