Soft power, hard power: Which is more relevant in our contemporary world?

In today’s complex international landscape, the tools or options available to countries for influencing international relations have expanded beyond traditional military and economic coercion and are rapidly advancing.

The question of whether diplomacy of power or power of diplomacy (*** best suits current international engagements***) still lingers in the minds of many students of international politics.

Joseph Nye’s concept of hard and soft power offers a strong framework for understanding how nations behave and interact in their pursuit of objectives.

Hard power involves the use of force or incentives, mainly through military and economic channels, while soft power relies on influencing others' preferences through attraction, persuasion and appeal.

In a contemporary world dominated by globalisation, digital connectivity and shifting alliances, I wish to argue that soft power has become a more relevant means of promoting long-term influence, peace, fostering cooperation, and securing international legitimacy, rather than relying on military strength and economic coercion.

However, I acknowledge that in some circumstances, employing military and economic might may be best for restoring world order.

This presents a conundrum of what ought to be or what is morally right in an ideal world. 

Emergence of soft power

Soft power has become more important as the world becomes more interconnected. In a global village, the way a nation is viewed often influences its impact on others.

The spread of foreign culture, including films, music, sports, food, education, diplomacy and values, influences global opinions more easily.

For example, despite geopolitical controversies, the United States’ global dominance in higher education, entertainment, and innovation continues to attract international admiration and partnerships.

The use of non-state actors such as USAID, has played a key role in shaping US foreign policy and has attracted significant attention recently.

The Trump administration's decision to eliminate these agencies has not sat well with many observers. 

Similarly, South Korea has strategically employed K-pop, dramas and technology to enhance its international stature.

The work of KOICA cannot be underestimated in this context. In these cases, the power of attraction has often proven to be more sustainable and highly effective in achieving objectives than coercion.

Several countries have effectively utilised soft power to attain diplomatic and economic objectives over the years.

The European continent has exerted influence through military dominance and establishing a global standard on data privacy, environmental policy and human rights.

China’s Confucius Institutes, global media expansion and infrastructure investment under the Belt and Road Initiative also demonstrate an understanding of the significance of soft power.

However, critics question the authenticity of such efforts.

Recent events such as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine demonstrate that Ukraine's ability to attract global sympathy and support largely depends on effective soft power diplomacy, social media campaigns, and maintaining a moral stance in international discourse.

The United States continues to exert its influence through its global tech companies such as Google, Apple, Meta, world-class universities and cultural exports.

The reputation of U.S. democratic values, although criticised in recent years by domestic political unrest, still plays a key role in shaping alliances and partnerships, particularly in the Indo-Pacific and Eastern Europe.

Case, hard power

Despite the rising prominence of soft power over the years, hard power remains significant, especially in unstable regions.

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Israel’s tensions with Palestine and Iran, military coups in Africa’s Sahel region, and China’s naval expansion in the South China Sea all demonstrate the ongoing reliance on military force and strength to assert dominance. 

These actions readily provoke international backlash and long-term reputational harm. Russia’s military action against Ukraine has triggered severe sanctions, diminished economic ties and lessened international influence.

Israel's extensive military operations in the Gaza Strip have prompted international protests and scrutiny, risking diplomatic standoffs in various parts of the world.

Need smart power

In my humble opinion, hard power still plays a vital role in conflict resolution in many cases, as it acts as a deterrent.

However, the 21st century rewards those who can win hearts and minds. 

Today’s world is characterised by transparency, interdependence, and digital visibility; therefore, the most effective strategy for states today is a combination of both hard power and soft power, known as “smart power”, as proposed by Joseph Nye.

This approach recognises that, while military and economic strength are essential, they must be complemented by the appeal of culture, policy, values and diplomatic credibility.

States that effectively combine these are most likely to succeed in their dealings with nations. 

Writer’s E-mail: stephen.gbadegbe@graphic.com.gh