In an increasingly shifting global order, great powers and emerging powers strive not only for economic growth and military might, but also for influence and recognition in leading the soft power arena. This quest often manifests through what is commonly referred to as ‘soft power’- the ability to shape the preferences of others through appeal and attraction rather than coercion. As the Global South states navigate the complexities of the 21st century, history and civilization have emerged as potent tools in the soft power arsenal, providing strategic foundations that can ultimately support their hard power objectives. This article explores how countries like India, China, Malaysia, and Indonesia use state-centric foreign policy to leverage their rich historical narratives and cultural heritages to compete for global influence and recognition.
Find out more at https://www.e-ir.info/2025/07/28/opinion-the-global-south-contest-for-soft-power-and-influence/
