China's soft power strategy gains traction in Europe
A survey conducted in June by Public First across 24 European Union nations revealed that eight countries preferred stronger relations with China, while nine opted for the US, and seven remained undecided. This suggests that China's attempts to position itself as a dependable partner are resonating amid the unpredictability of the US. Soft power, which allows a nation to influence preferences through appeal, relies on trusted enterprises, cultural openness, creativity, and sports achievements rather than mere government statements. As the second-largest global economy and a frontrunner in manufacturing and innovation, China's influence increasingly hinges on how its businesses, educational institutions, culture, and citizens are perceived. This survey highlights that trust and reputation, rather than solely economic or geopolitical factors, are crucial for international influence.
Key facts
- A June survey of 24 EU countries by Public First found eight leaned towards China, nine towards the US, and seven split.
- China portrays itself as a more stable and reliable partner as Washington becomes unpredictable.
- Soft power is a country's ability to shape preferences and inspire admiration through attraction.
- Soft power is developed through individual experiences and human connections, not government proclamations.
- China is the world's second-largest economy and a leader in manufacturing, infrastructure, and innovation.
- China's influence increasingly depends on how people experience its companies, universities, culture, visitors, and citizens.
- International influence is about trust and reputation, not just power.
- People choose where to travel, study, invest, work, and build partnerships based on how they think of a country.
Entities
Institutions
- Public First
- European Union
Locations
- China
- United States
- Washington
- Europe