Tourism as a “Soft Power” in International Relations: The Case of Türkiye

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Journal of New Tourism Trends
Cilt: 6 Sayı: 2
Tourism as a “Soft Power” in International Relations: The Case of Türkiye

Tourism as a “Soft Power” in International Relations: The Case of Türkiye

Pages : 302-313

View : 64 | Download : 654

Publication Date : 2025-12-28

Article Type : Review Paper

Abstract :This article will examine how countries use tourism as a political tool in international relations. In the globalized world, soft power has become a cornerstone of international relations. The term soft power, coined by Joseph Nye, refers to “a nation’s ability to shape the preferences and behaviors of others through appeal and attraction rather than coercion or force.” Tourism is generally described as a leisure activity. However, behind the scenes, in an increasingly interconnected world, governments use tourism as a powerful political instrument to achieve a wide range of diplomatic and economic goals. For this reason, tourism plays a significant role for governments as a way to promote their unique cultural heritage, historical, and many other values in international relations. This way, tourism shapes how other countries perceive a nation and governments use this perception as a soft power policy in conducting their foreign affairs. In this context, Türkiye is given as an example which promotes tourism internationally that contributes to Türkiye’s soft power. Therefore, especially “hot air balloon” and the “Black Sea Coast” tourism concepts are going to be highlighted for serving as an instrument of Türkiye’s soft power policy. Tourism significantly enhances Türkiye\\\'s influence and positive image in international relations. Overall, the role of tourism as a political tool for governments will highly likely become more significant policy as global geopolitics continue to evolve. The rise of global tourism makes its influence on international diplomacy is inevitable. Without ignoring this, governments will continue to seek to use tourism, in multifaceted ways, to advance their national interests.
Keywords : Uluslararası İlişkiler, Yumuşak Güç, Turizm, Türkiye, Ekonomik Kalkınma

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