Geopolitical Standing and Soft Power Tools: China in South America Case Study

Abstract

Over the past years the soft power term has been pivotal and widely employed in the international arena. Mainly related to the United States of America, nowadays, The People's Republic of China has also endorsed their soft power initiatives around the globe, reaching Latin America. In the last two decades, China has reaffirmed its presence in Latin America, arguing a paradigm shift in the region's international relations. This heightened interest stems primarily from China's expanding global influence and its quest for resources, markets, and strategic partnerships. Apart from routine bilateral interactions within the region, the PRC has maintained political ties with Latin America through the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) and almost all other regional multilateral institutions, such as the Inter-American system, where it has actively participated as an observer in the Organization of American States (OAS) since 2004. Nonetheless, the thesis investigation will take a closer look at the softer side of the equation. Cultural and informational aspects of PRC soft power influence include selective regional distribution of state-sponsored propaganda and PRC media; the creation of 44 regional Confucius Institutes to teach Chinese language and culture; various forms of "people-to-people" engagement, such as state sponsored scholarships that facilitate studies in China and strategic "expert" exchanges; the encouragement of travel to China by Latin American academics, journalists, politicians and other professionals; and other forms of strategic engagement. Focusing on cultural diplomacy, media influence, and educational exchange, the research will explore the strategies China employs to increase its geopolitical standing in the region, focusing merely on South America. Essentially, the central inquiry revolves around the extent to which these soft power initiatives support China's influence and standing in the region and the varied responses obtained from South American countries.