In this article, we will discuss soft power in diplomatic relations. The effectiveness of soft power is quite high due to its peaceful means which is why it is being more widely used in today’s geopolitics. Therefore, writing a dissertation on this topic will be a great addition to your field of study. Our primary emphasis will be on cultural diplomacy and public diplomacy using soft power in dissertation topics. Firstly we will discuss what soft power is in diplomatic relations, then cultural diplomacy and public diplomacy.
Soft Power
Soft power is cooperation rather than coercion by shaping the preferences of others through peaceful and attractive means. This non-coercive power is used to bring change in culture, political, and social values as well as in foreign policies. In this manner, diplomatic relations can be moulded accordingly. The usage of soft power in diplomatic dissertation topics is very common. Let’s discuss an example to bring more clarity to the concept. In 2018, an American review published that France's influence was greater than Britain's on European geopolitics in the 18th century merely due to their cultural and symbolic power. It exhibits that soft power is very strong if used prudently.
Cultural Diplomacy: The power of shared values
The exchange of ideas, values, traditions, and other aspects of culture or identity to make diplomatic relationships stronger or to enhance socio-cultural cooperation is called cultural diplomacy. To use it properly in a dissertation, it must be understood by students clearly. Cultural diplomacy is also used to promote national interests which is why it is widely practised by public as well as private and civil society.
Cultural Diplomacy In The Public Sector
Students focusing on the public sector in their dissertation must incorporate two broad approaches - hard and soft power. Hard power is mostly favoured by governments for international and regional diplomatic relations. However, soft power as a form of cultural diplomacy is also significant. Cultural diplomacy is as important as political and economic diplomacy. Countries need to connect and understand each other through their cultures using soft power.
Cultural Diplomacy In The Private Sector
As businesses focus more on being socially responsible, understanding and respecting different cultures and societies is crucial. Here is why it matters for companies:
Companies that create marketing and campaigns sensitive to different cultures will be seen positively by the public. This helps them do better financially.
When companies want to expand to other countries, they need to understand and respect the cultural differences there. If they don't, they might face problems.
Even within their own country, companies must be aware of and respectful towards cultural minorities to succeed
Public Diplomacy to include in dissertations
When countries directly communicate with foreign publics then it is called public diplomacy. Some common examples are press conferences and policymaker statements. Governmental organisations launch campaigns to give a glimpse to the international media about the internal policy and the target audiences. Students of IR focussing on the global stage should share perceptions and must include relevant examples where governmental organisations followed public diplomacy by targetting international media. However, they can also seek online dissertation help from experts. Professionals of dissertation writing can not only help them with topic selection but also give relevant case studies and updated knowledge to include. In international relations, where diplomatic relations change frequently, updated and current information is crucial. Oftentimes, students cannot comprehend every piece of news, therefore, get comprehensive as well as meticulous current affairs knowledge from the professionals of international relations. Now, let's discuss the approaches which students can use in public diplomacy.
Approaches to Public Diplomacy
IR students must include two main approaches in their dissertations namely branding and advocacy. For that let’s understand what are these two approaches.
Branding
Branding for a country means using strategies and actions to show the world a positive image of itself. It's like how a person might use their actions and words to make others see them in a good light. It consists of packaging the country’s identity, highlighting certain elements of its history, its cultural production, and its foreign policy, to make it attractive, and associate it with positive values. Students can include examples of the Pakistan Council as well as Turkey’s public diplomacy efforts. However, this approach can turn out to be reactive so can be used to counter an image that was portrayed by a country previously such as dismantling stereotypes or rectifying misinformation.
Advocacy
It is used by diplomats to achieve specific objectives. They encourage governments and local parties to take action. In today's media, which often simplifies international issues, countries need to explain their position clearly to shape how they are perceived globally. For instance, when a country launches a public diplomacy campaign for healthy habits development through TV ads, social media, and events.
Case study of soft power effectiveness
The European Union is a leading international organisation with the ability to attract new members due to its peaceful negotiations and integration with European countries. This union encourage countries to participate and every member has a say in the decision making. which is why peace and safety among European countries is prevalent. The ability to enlarge the EU makes its image even stronger worldwide. Students of IR can include such successful international unions to showcase the effectiveness of soft power.
Conclusion
To conclude, we discussed soft power in diplomatic relations. Our main emphasis was on public and cultural diplomacy in diplomatic dissertation topics. We discussed the approaches of public diplomacy and the application of cultural diplomacy to use in dissertations. For a brief overview, follow the content in the headings mentioned below:
What Is Soft Power in Diplomatic Relations?
Cultural Diplomacy: The Power of Shared Values
Public Diplomacy: Shaping Perceptions on the Global Stage
Case Study In Effective Soft Power Strategies.
By following the content in these headings, you can understand soft power in diplomatic relations. I hope that you found this article helpful!
