Changing Narratives: An Evaluation of Pakistan’s Public Diplomacy Efforts Under Imran Khan

Authors

  • Ravale Mohydin TRT World Research Centre

Keywords:

public diplomacy, Pakistan, Imran Khan, nation branding, U.S. war in Afghanistan

Abstract

In today’s multipolar world, asymmetric power relations are common as nations compete to strive and gain greater access to scarce resources, such as influence and a positive national brand. Discussing the nuanced relationship between nation branding and public diplomacy, along with best practices for both, this article analyzes Pakistan’s past international image through a historical sociopolitical lens as a case study. Then, it evaluates the country’s public diplomacy efforts, including those linked to the U.S. war in Afghanistan, undertaken especially by the Pakistani government under Prime Minister Imran Khan. A growing congruence was detected between Pakistani and Western officials’ communications, potentially signaling a change in perception of Pakistan, particularly in light of regional security and its relationship with the West.

Author Biography

Ravale Mohydin, TRT World Research Centre

Ravale Mohydin is a Researcher at TRT World Research Centre in Istanbul, Turkey. Her current work focuses on public diplomacy, media in conflict and politics of entertainment. She tweets at @Ravale_Mohydin and can be reached at +90 545 721 4910.

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Published

2023-03-28

Issue

Vol. 17 (2023)

Section

Articles

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