The closure of USAID has ignited a crucial conversation about the evolving role of soft power and public digital diplomacy in a world increasingly driven by hard power and realpolitik. Jovan Kurbalija's analysis delves into the heart of this debate, raising pressing questions that could reshape international relations and diplomacy:

• Is soft power losing its relevance?In a world dominated by hard power, can values like justice, solidarity, and fairness still 'win hearts and minds'?
• Who will fill the soft power void?Will China, the EU, India, or others step up in regions like Africa and Asia?
• What does this mean for the global balance of power?How will this shift reshape global diplomacy?

USAID has been a key contributor to thedigitalaspects of US soft power, supporting projects on information integrity, digital networks, and social media. With this segment of USAID's work facing criticism from the Trump administration, the impact on public digital diplomacy is expected to be significant. Kurbalija's analysis sparks a timely discussion focusing on critical questions:

• Will the shift toward traditional, realpolitik diplomacy reduce the relevance of social media in diplomacy?Given that traditional diplomacy frequently occurs in a discreet setting, will digital platforms become less significant?
• Who will shape public diplomacy narratives?With the decentralisation of global media-both traditional and digital-who will shape narratives on issues like human rights, climate change, and economic development?
• Will the 'hearts and minds' battle move from social media campaigns to in situ diplomatic engagement?Growing scepticism towards the impartiality of digital media may revive the importance of traditional public diplomacy, with diplomats engaging local communities through cultural, artistic, and grassroots initiatives.

Join the discussion:How do you see the future of soft power and digital public diplomacy evolving? Share your insights and be part of this critical conversation!