Türkiye’s Public Diplomacy and Strategic Communication Practices
摘要
Public diplomacy involves the strategic use of communication to influence foreign publics and enhance a nation’s soft power. It is an important mechanism used in modern diplomacy. Türkiye has recently expanded its public diplomacy institutions and tools utilizing international broadcasting, educational exchange programs, and various cultural diplomacy activities. Building on this foundation, this chapter begins by defining key concepts like public diplomacy, cultural diplomacy, and nation-branding. It distinguishes public diplomacy from propaganda, emphasizing transparency, mutual engagement, and the importance of building long-term relationships. The chapter highlights the role of these modern diplomatic mechanisms in foreign policy and in boosting soft power. Another central theme of this chapter is the role of research-informed and empircally grounded knowledge production in enhancing public diplomacy efforts. Real-time data allows states to better anticipate global trends and respond to crises with greater potential for precision. The chapter concludes with an evaluation of Türkiye’s public diplomacy initiatives, analyzing how the country has utilized these tools in recent years. It identifies areas where Türkiye could further enhance its efforts, particularly by incorporating more research informed approaches into its strategic communication. This discussion highlights the broader implications of Türkiye’s public diplomacy practices for its foreign policy and its standing as a middle power in the global system.