Soft Power and Diplomacy: Assessing Influence in Global Affairs in Rwanda

Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess the soft power and diplomacy, assessing influence in global affairs in Rwanda. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: The study reveals that soft power, defined as the ability to attract and persuade through cultural, political, and ideological means, plays a crucial role in contemporary diplomacy. It highlights that traditional measures of power, such as military might and economic prowess, are complemented and often overshadowed by soft power dynamics in shaping perceptions, alliances, and outcomes in global affairs. The findings underscore the significance of cultural diplomacy, public diplomacy, and the use of narratives in enhancing a country's soft power capabilities. Moreover, the study emphasizes the importance of understanding local contexts, leveraging technology, and fostering people-to-people exchanges to effectively wield soft power on the international stage. Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Soft power theory, public diplomacy theory and network diplomacy theory may be used to anchor future studies on assessing soft power and diplomacy, assessing influence in global affairs in Rwanda. Enhance the effectiveness of soft power strategies through targeted cultural diplomacy initiatives. Develop coherent and strategic soft power policies that align with broader foreign policy objectives.