In International Relations study, there are many types of power that states can make use of. However, two types can be referred to in seeing the dynamics in the international stage, they are hard power and soft power. The former is often seen as an instrument of coercion whereas the latter is often seen as instruments of attraction or cooperation.
Across various fields, soft power can utilize various approaches to promote cooperation between one state and the other which can better its perception in the eyes of the international community. It is not surprising to see many states, regardless of their size and power they hold, have their share of soft power that can be used across many fields, from education, culture, and tourism.
In recent months, we have witnessed a growing number of hard power uses in unilateral fashion. From the uses of armament to other means of hard power projection, the sword has appeared to be more prominent. Such a thing not only causes worry and fear, but it also brings to the table doubts of what soft power can do amidst the use of hard power.
While it can’t be denied that hard power has always remained central for national security and defense, it can be understood how its use still causes some worry in other states. This can be understood considering the severe damage it can cause on the ground as it demonstrates the extent of a state’s capacity. However, it also can develop fear of those who employ such force. Such fear can also push other states to build up their respective hard power capacity.
The Case of the EU in the Indo-Pacific
Despite its strong influence in terms of soft power, the EU realized that it needed to have adequate hard power as well to better establish itself in the Indo-Pacific. That realization is further amplified by the US-China competition. By expanding its capacity, the EU did not dismantle its soft power identity, rather it added more layers (hard power) to better adapt with the growing strategic landscape.
Thanks to that adaptation, the EU can utilize new instruments, primarily in the form of capacity building and even naval deployment in the region that can bolster its soft power luster.
The case of the EU, and in other unmentioned examples, demonstrate how both types of power are important in the attainment of interests. Despite the strong allure that soft power offers, one can not rely on it alone when push comes to shove. The same goes when it comes to hard power as building good ties with other states require something other than hard power alone.
In short, despite the importance of hard power, soft power also remains an important instrument in building good ties with other states. Therefore, both types of power, instead of only one of them, are important, especially in this turbulent international system.
Now, what sort of combination of power that Indonesia can utilize these days?
