Examine The Differences Between The Effectiveness Of Hard Power and Soft Power In Global Politics. (12)

Question 1

P1: HP Method of influence

Answer 1

1. Hard power uses coercive tools such as military force, economic sanctions and political pressure to force states to change behaviour.
2. It directly compels actors through the threat or use of punishment.
3. Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, launched by Vladimir Putin, used military force to attempt to redraw Ukraine’s borders and prevent deeper integration with the NATO alliance and the European Union.
4. EU sanctions on Iran in the early 2010s targeting banking and oil exports, which sharply reduced Iran’s oil revenues and pressured it to negotiate the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (2015) nuclear deal.

Question 2

P1: SP Method of influence

Answer 2

1. Soft power relies on persuasion, attraction and cultural influence rather than coercion.
2. States influence others through diplomacy, culture, and shared values.
3. Japan has expanded global influence through cultural exports such as anime, technology and Japanese cuisine, which improve perceptions of Japan and strengthen tourism, trade relations and cultural influence without military or economic pressure.

Question 3

P2: HP Speed of Effectiveness

Answer 3

1. Hard power can achieve rapid, immediate results, particularly when a state wants to enforce an unpopular decision.
2. China has militarised artificial islands in the South China Sea, building runways and military facilities to quickly strengthen its territorial claims, despite disputes with neighbours such as the Philippines.
3. Hard power is also essential when actors ignore diplomacy. After the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the Ukraine government conscripted soldiers while countries such as the United States, Germany, and United Kingdom provided major military aid.

Question 4

P2: SP Works slowly

Answer 4

1. Soft power works more slowly, but builds long-term influence and trust.
2. 2008 Beijing Olympics was used by China as a soft power strategy to showcase modern infrastructure, economic development and rising global status.
3. Broadcast to billions worldwide, it improved global perceptions of China and strengthened its trade relationships and diplomatic influence over time.

Question 5

P3: SP Impact on reputation

Answer 5

1. Soft power often enhances a country’s international reputation, presenting it as cooperative, responsible and values-driven.
2. This can increase influence within global governance and international negotiations.
3. The European Union has strengthened its reputation by promoting ambitious climate policies and financial support for developing countries’ green transitions, helping it shape global environmental discussions.

Question 6

P3: HP Reputation

Answer 6

1. Hard power can damage legitimacy, especially if military force or sanctions are seen as aggressive or violating human rights.
2. States relying heavily on coercion may face international criticism and reduced credibility.
3. For example, the Israel–Gaza war (2023–2025) led by Benjamin Netanyahu resulted in over 70,000 deaths, leading to growing criticism from European leaders and reduced international support for Israel.