Insights into International Higher Education and The Rise of Soft Power as Cultural Diplomacy: A Look at Morocco and South Korea

Group Submission Type: Book Launch

Description of Session

In today's increasingly interconnected world, the concept of soft power has become an important tool in the diplomatic arsenal of countries seeking to exert influence beyond their borders. In this book, the author provides readers with a clear and concise introduction to the concept of soft power and its role in international higher education and cultural diplomacy. She also explores the rise of soft power, and how countries are using it to achieve their diplomatic goals. This book opens a discussion focused on the relationships between nations, their economies, and universities to develop innovative exchange programs based on best practices as well as unique collaborations that create powerful multidisciplinary partnerships. The book offers a look at how Morocco and South Korea have used higher education as soft power and as cultural diplomacy to further their respective national interests. The book provides insights into the rise of international education as soft power and as cultural diplomacy and the role that universities play in this new era of international relations through tackling areas that are rarely viewed extensively in academia- that of Morocco and South Korea. Through a mixed method of research, the author investigates international higher education use in the context of soft power and cultural diplomacy, and how it is manifested in Morocco and South Korea. The book argues that international higher education can play a significant role in promoting a country's nation brand and position in global affairs and offers insights into how Morocco can leverage its investment in international higher education to achieve these goals. The findings of this book offer valuable insights into the way that international higher education is utilized within soft power and cultural diplomacy, and will be of interest to policy-makers, educators, and students alike.
One of the critical reasons for choosing Morocco and South Korea as case studies is that they represent two countries with different cultural and political backgrounds, which can provide a comparative perspective on the concept of soft power in higher education. Additionally, both countries have experienced significant economic and social transformations in recent years, and their higher education systems have played a critical role in these changes. By examining how each country's higher education system has contributed to the nation's soft power, this book can help readers gain insights into the ways in which higher education can be used to advance a country's international standing. Furthermore, while there has been some scholarship on soft power in higher education, there has been relatively no attention paid to Morocco and South Korea specifically, this helps create valuable literature for the regions of Africa, Middle East, and East Asia. By focusing on these two countries, the hope is to contribute to the literature on soft power in higher education and expand the understanding of how it operates in different cultural and political contexts outside of those controlled by the US and other major western countries.

Sub Unit

• Pre-Conference Workshops, Book launches, and Visual Art Exhibits / Book Launch

Chair

• Aicha ADOUI, Georgetown University

Book Launch Presenter

• Aicha ADOUI, Georgetown University