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Soft power

Trends in soft power 2020-25

Trends in soft power 2020-2025

This analysis compares 25 countries and explores how they use cultural, educational, and diplomatic resources to build international influence.

Measuring soft power in an age of destruction: Why trust matters, and why its character matters more

The question of trust in soft power has never been more urgent or more complex. Three leading scholars reflect on what this means today.

A hand pinning dots on a map

Education as soft power: Why the UK’s International Education Strategy matters

What is the connection between UK schools, colleges, universities, and global influence? Hear from Michael Peak on the recent publication of the UK's International Education Strategy.

Shadows of people in an art space

Cultural Mobility and Connection: Ireland and the Four Nations of the UK

This report explores UK-Ireland arts and cultural connections. It makes suggestions to drive growth, insight and partnerships in the cultural ecosystem between Ireland and the four nations.

A young person on the street.

The impact of international study on perceptions

As more countries invest in global education, how can the UK maintain its advantage? This article examines what the latest Global Perceptions 2025 data means for the UK’s future influence.

A young woman look intensly at the camera.

Freedom, frustration, and the future: youth perceptions of democracy

Global Perceptions 2025 study reveals that young people prize democratic values while the appeal of authoritarian states is rising. What does this shift mean for the future?

A viw of the Forbidden City in China

Influence and attraction in a multipolar world

As global tensions rise, trust in emerging powers is growing. This article explores what that means for the UK and why soft power and cooperation matter more than ever.

Two female students smiling and talking

Understanding the impact of transnational education: insights from UK TNE alumni

By surveying and interviewing UK TNE graduates, this study explores the impact of UK TNE on alumni and the local environments where they live and work.

Looking through a stained glass window to European rooftops

UK cultural diplomacy in Europe 1989-2025

A research collaboration to inform UK soft power strategy.

Asian student in a row smiling in his graduation ceremony

Alumni Voices 2025: UK Graduates, Global Influence

Round 2 of the Alumni Voices study concluded in 2025. Find out the key findings and read the report.

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