Does Soft Power Work? Evaluating the Effectiveness of China’s Confucius Institutes in Latin America

Abstract

China’s soft power efforts have increased, attracting global attention through diplomacy, cultural initiatives, and economic ventures. A notable example is the establishment of Confucius Institutes (CIs). This dissertation examines how China employs soft power strategies in Latin America, with a specific focus on Argentina and Chile. Drawing on a wide range of academic literature, economic data, government databases, and news sources, this study examines the role of CIs within China’s broader cultural soft power strategy to determine the effectiveness of China’s soft power efforts.

This research employs a mixed-method approach, combining a qualitative case study analysis of China’s cultural diplomacy and political, domestic, and economic trends in Argentina and Chile with a quantitative evaluation of variables such as trade balance, Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), Chinese aid, Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) participation, the establishment of CIs, and public opinion polls. A comparative analysis revealed a correlation between the establishment of CIs and China’s rise in soft power, but it did not establish causation. While imports, exports, and Chinese FDI increased before and after the establishment of CIs, public opinion polls declined, suggesting that China’s soft power efforts in Latin America are ineffective. The findings contribute to an understanding of China’s engagement strategy in Latin America and the extent to which cultural diplomacy and CIs are used as a soft power tool. Furthermore, these findings challenge the notion that Chinese soft power initiatives pose a direct threat to Western society, suggesting a shift in focus from soft power to Chinese economic strength.

Disciplines

Asian Studies | International Law | International Relations

Subject Area

International relations; Asian studies; International law

Department

International Relations (INR)

First Advisor

Raymond, Chad

Second Advisor

Buckman, Kirk

Third Advisor

Giannakos, Symeon

Date of Award

2025

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Ph.D.

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