TÜRKİYE’S DIGITAL PUBLIC DIPLOMACY IN CENTRAL ASIA: COMPETING WITH CHINA AND RUSSIA FOR SOFT POWER INFLUENCE

Authors : Özden Özlü

Pages : 8-28

Doi:10.58635/ufuksbedergi.1792939

View : 204 | Download : 448

Publication Date : 2025-12-31

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :This study explores how Türkiye positions itself as a leading digital public diplomacy actor in Central Asia, competing with China and Russia for regional soft power influence. Drawing on a qualitative document analysis of official statements, institutional reports, media outputs and academic publications from 2020 to 2024, it examines the narratives, tools and engagement strategies shaping Türkiye’s outreach. Türkiye leverages its cultural and linguistic proximity through agencies such as TİKA, the Yunus Emre Institute, Türkiye Scholarships, the Orhun Exchange Program and TRT Avaz to promote people-to-people connectivity and shared identity. In contrast, China combines economic leverage and cultural diplomacy under the Belt and Road Initiative, while Russia relies on language, historical memory, and media channels like RT and Sputnik to sustain influence. Digital platforms serve as both instruments and arenas of competition, where visibility, responsiveness, and cultural resonance determine impact. The findings highlight Türkiye’s growing digital diplomacy capacity and its unique advantage of cultural affinity, suggesting that future research should assess audience perceptions and the long-term effectiveness of its regional strategies.
Keywords : Dijital Kamu Diplomasisi, Uluslararası İlişkiler, Kamu Diplomasisi Stratejileri, Yumuşak Güç, Stratejik İletişim

ORIGINAL ARTICLE URL