Soft power and its transformations in light of existential threats
Soft power is one of the most prominent concepts that has shaped international relations in recent decades. It is the ability to influence and persuade through the tools of culture, thought, diplomacy, and media, rather than through military or economic coercion. This approach has formed the framework for many countries that have sought to enhance their international presence by investing in cultural events, fostering dialogue between opposing sides, and expanding networks of intercultural communication.
However, the turbulent transformations in the regional and international environment have raised questions about the adequacy of these tools in confronting existential threats. The experience of Qatar serves as a clear example. Over two decades, Doha managed to build a comprehensive soft power system through media, sports, education, and multifaceted diplomacy. However, the imposition of the blockade revealed the limitations of this power when the country faced a direct threat to its political and economic existence. Despite this, the impact of soft power was not entirely absent.
It contributed to strengthening popular and international solidarity with Qatar and created a favorable environment for reopening channels of negotiation and reaching a subsequent reconciliation. This demonstrates that soft power does not lose its value, but it remains insufficient on its own when it comes to national security and existential threats. Hence the need for the concept of “smart power,” which is based on the flexible integration of soft and hard power.
States can no longer rely solely on one approach in isolation; rather, ensuring stability requires combining cultural and diplomatic incentives with military, security, and economic deterrents. Therefore, the fundamental question is no longer: Has soft power become obsolete? But rather: How can it be reintegrated into a comprehensive system with hard power to guarantee security and maintain influence in a world of rapidly evolving challenges?
