Why Japan thinks China’s growing cultural clout is something it needs to counter
The article discusses Japan's response to China's increasing influence in global culture, particularly through gaming and traditional arts, and how this rivalry has intensified in recent months.
Firjan launches tool to measure the influence of municipalities in Rio de Janeiro
Firjan has introduced the Mapa Rio Soft Power, a new tool designed to assess the influence and reputation of 20 municipalities in the state of Rio de Janeiro.
The kill line vs Chinamaxxing: a window into how China and the US see each other
The article explores contrasting perceptions of culture between the US and China, highlighting the rise of 'Chinamaxxing' in the US and the emergence of the 'kill line' narrative in China.
How China can win friends and influencers to help tell the country’s story well
The article discusses China's approach to enhancing its soft power by encouraging international students to share their personal experiences of the country on social media.
From Carnation to 'Soft Power' – A New Definition of Women's Capital
The article discusses how the significance of Women’s Day in Poland has evolved from a symbol of patriarchal oppression to a celebration of women's capabilities and contributions to society.
What's on at the Venice Biennale? Russian soft power
The Russian pavilion returns to the Venice Biennale amidst ongoing conflict with Ukraine, signaling a shift in cultural responses to Russian influence.
The Soft Power of the Greek Language
The article discusses the significant role of the Greek language in shaping national identity and power dynamics.
Fatigue is rewriting the US-China soft power contest, starting in Asean
The article discusses how fatigue from global crises is affecting the dynamics of soft power competition between the US and China, particularly in Southeast Asia.
"Troll 2": This is how you do soft power!
The article reviews the film 'Troll 2', praising its entertaining qualities despite its campy nature and simplistic storyline, highlighting its cultural promotion of Norway.
Chinamaxxing: The New TikTok Trend That Strengthens Beijing's Soft Power
The TikTok trend known as 'Chinamaxxing' sees young Americans adopting Chinese lifestyle practices amidst geopolitical tensions.
Europe in the new geopolitical landscape, from soft power to strategic autonomy
The article discusses Europe's transition from soft power to a more integrated approach to security and strategy amid global instability.
The TikTok Trend Makes the Communist Party Cheer - Americans Want to Be 'Chinese'
A TikTok trend among Westerners, including Americans, is embracing aspects of Chinese culture, prompting reflections on China's growing soft power.
How China is building the hi-tech backbone of Africa’s space ambitions
China is enhancing Africa's space capabilities by establishing advanced satellite ground stations and infrastructure across the continent, a strategy linked to its broader soft power initiatives.
Dance that Touches – Imagine the Power of Love Can Be So Soft!
Mats Ek's choreographed interpretation of Shakespeare's tragedy 'Romeo and Juliet' brings a profound softness that resonates with audiences at the Royal Opera.
Is this the end of the golden age of Chinese think tanks with star ex-officials?
Recent corruption cases involving retired officials from prominent Chinese think tanks raise concerns about the sustainability of this influential model.
Power to the cat
The article discusses the longstanding presence of a cat at 10 Downing Street, highlighting its status as a symbol of stability amidst various political changes in the UK.
The Iron 'Soft Power' of K-pop: BTS Mobilizes Fans, Monopolies, and Politicians in Mexico
BTS's upcoming reunion tour in Mexico has sparked a national controversy over ticket sales and prices, illustrating the band's significant cultural influence.
The Kremlin's Mouthpiece Attacks Professor Over Jessica Shy's Song – Her Response
Professor J. Zabarskaitė responds to criticisms from M. Zacharova regarding her interpretation of cultural influences in Jessica Shy's song.
The USA brand in free fall
The article discusses the decline of the United States' global reputation and the effects of soft power on its international influence.
At Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, Russian Athletes Are a Diminished Presence
Russian athletes will have a limited presence at the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, competing as 'Individual Neutral Athletes' due to international bans linked to the invasion of Ukraine.
Dressed Americans for the Olympics. A Famous Brand Highlights Sales Results
Ralph Lauren reports strong sales performance despite a slowdown in the luxury goods market, showcasing its enduring appeal in a challenging economic climate.
Cyber Wars: Soft Power Transformed into Deadly Digital Fangs
The article discusses the transformation of cyber warfare into a potent geopolitical reality, reshaping the concept of national sovereignty.
A very Chinese time? How memes are paving the way for a soft power shift
The article discusses how social media memes portraying 'Chineseness' are reshaping perceptions of China in a positive light, potentially influencing soft power dynamics despite skepticism about long-term attitudinal change.
2026 Olympics: Sports, Business, and Diplomacy ... Olympism as a Language of Peace
The article discusses the evolving role of the Olympics as a tool of soft power, particularly in light of the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina, emphasizing its impact on international diplomacy amid geopolitical tensions.
Sumo Diplomacy: Japan's Heavyweight Ambassadors to 'Soft Power'
The sumo competitions are regaining attention as part of Japan's soft power on the international stage, following years of being in the shadows, with upcoming tours planned in Paris after a London event last year.
NEW EXHIBITION ⟩ A cat represents soft power and helps understand the attainment of power
A new exhibition curated by Olga Einasto at the University of Tartu Library explores the concept of power through the lens of cats and their relationship with humans.
"Unlocking Potential, Building Tomorrow" – Second Edition of EFNI Spring in April in Warsaw
The EFNI Spring event in Warsaw will focus on discussions regarding the future of the Polish economy and effective promotion of Poland in Europe and globally, covering topics like new technologies, energy transformation, human capital, and cultural soft power.
Trump, Spiderman and Doctor Octopus
The article discusses the metaphorical destruction of America's soft power by a supervillain, paralleling the impact on democracy as illustrated by the story of a five-year-old Ecuadorian boy taken from his family in Minneapolis.
The 7 key job skills that companies are looking for: what they are and how to develop them
In an increasingly competitive and changing job market, companies prioritize personal and social competencies, also known as 'power skills', which are essential for employment and professional growth.
‘Soft-power diplomacy’: Denmark hosts US delegation amid Trump's Arctic threats
Denmark is hosting a US delegation to engage in soft-power diplomacy following threats related to the Arctic from former President Trump.
Research: Knowledge is power - the US President should understand this too
The article discusses Joseph Nye's concept of 'Soft Power', emphasizing the United States' role as a model for this form of influence through cultural appeal and diplomacy rather than military force.
"It was a bit awkward at first": when the South Korean and Japanese leaders play drums together to K-pop music
South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi engaged in a musical moment playing drums together to K-pop music during a diplomatic summit in Nara, Japan.
Osterhammel on Trump: The Soft is Defeated
Historian Jürgen Osterhammel reflects on Donald Trump's second presidency through the lens of Joseph Nye's concept of 'soft power', questioning its relevance after Nye's death.
Venezuela, Maduro, 'Call of Duty' and the 'soft power' of the United States
The article explores how the depiction of Venezuela and Maduro in the video game 'Call of Duty' reflects the influence of U.S. soft power on younger generations.
Farandouris from Washington: Greece can utilize its soft power in the Middle East and Africa
Greek MEP Farandouris, speaking from Washington, emphasized that Greece can leverage its soft power in the Middle East and Africa to improve regional relations and quality of life.