Soft Power Diplomacy: A Tool for the Advancement of the US Strategy in Central Asia

Zulfiya Torebekova; Guldana Baktiyarova

doi:10.52536/3006-807X.2025-2.003

Authors

Zulfiya Torebekova Center for Research and Evaluation, Kazakhstan Author https://orcid.org/0009-0008-9583-4177
Guldana Baktiyarova Astana International University, Kazakhstan Author https://orcid.org/0009-0001-5918-3388

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.52536/3006-807X.2025-2.003

Keywords:

soft power, educational diplomacy, academic mobility, governance, geopolitical influence

Abstract

The United States has tactically used educational diplomacy in Central Asia, leveraging academic engagement as soft power and promoting democratic values. This analysis investigates the impact of U.S.-funded educational projects in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan, examining how these initiatives have influenced changes in higher education reform, academic mobility, and governance. It discusses the gaps and the sustainability of these efforts by considering the geopolitical factors driving U.S. actions in the region, particularly the rising influence of China and Russia.

The analysis adopts a mixed-methods research design to accomplish these objectives, combining document analysis of policy and project evaluations from various countries.

The findings confirm that US programs have improved education systems and promoted democratic values. However, the long-term sustainability of these initiatives remains uncertain due to geopolitical boundaries, financial constraints, and competition from other foreign actors.

Author Biographies

Zulfiya Torebekova, Center for Research and Evaluation, Kazakhstan

PhD, Senior Researcher, Center for Research and Evaluation, Kazakhstan
Guldana Baktiyarova, Astana International University, Kazakhstan

PhD student, Astana International University, Kazakhstan

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