Q20. Terrorist activities and mutual distrust have clouded India–Pakistan relations. To what extent the use of soft power like sports and cultural exchange could help generate goodwill between the two countries? Discuss with suitable examples.

Model Answer:

Introduction

India and Pakistan's political tensions are high, but soft power through sports and culture can foster goodwill and understanding.

Body

Role of Soft Power in Diplomacy

Soft power uses non-coercive means like culture and sports to influence relations, promoting empathy and cooperation over confrontation.

  1. Sports Diplomacy
  1. Cricket as a Unifier: Cricket matches, especially the India-Pakistan series, evoke shared emotions and unity, creating a platform for positive cross-border engagement.
  2. Peace and Friendship Initiatives: Campaigns like "Aman ki Asha" used cricket as a means to encourage dialogue and friendship between the two nations.

2. Cultural Diplomacy

  1. Cinema and Music: Bollywood and Pakistani music have significant cross-border audiences, fostering mutual admiration and cultural bonding through entertainment.
  2. Joint Cultural Festivals: Literary festivals and art collaborations provide avenues for intellectual engagement, promoting mutual respect and shared creative endeavours.

3. People-to-People Diplomacy

  1. Religious Pilgrimages: The Kartarpur Corridor exemplifies soft power, promoting religious harmony and goodwill, even during periods of heightened political strain.
  2. Academic and Civil Society Exchange: Educational exchanges and joint research foster cross-border understanding, promoting open-mindedness among younger generations in both nations.

Challenges to Soft Power Diplomacy

  1. Security Concerns: Terrorism and security concerns hinder the effectiveness of soft power, straining efforts to foster sustained goodwill and cooperation.
  2. Public Sentiment and Media Narratives: Nationalist media portrayals and public sentiment often undermine soft power diplomacy, fueling distrust between Indian and Pakistani citizens.
  3. State Support: Visa restrictions and government policies limit cultural exchanges, hindering the full potential of soft power in improving relations.

Conclusion

‍Soft power through sports and culture can help ease tensions, but consistent government support and resilience are essential for success.

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