CONFUCIUS INSTITUTE AS AN EDUCATIONAL TOOL OF SOFT POWER AND ITS CONNECTION WITH THE STATE POLICY OF THE PRC

Abstract

This article explores the role of Confucius Institutes (CIs) as instruments of “soft power” in Ukraine and worldwide, investigating their connection to the state policy of the People's Republic of China (PRC). Through an analysis of CIs impact on global educational and cultural processes, the mechanisms through which the PRC seeks to strengthen its influence through “soft power” and educational initiatives become clearer.The author states that out of the nine CIs established in Ukrainian higher education institutions, only five remain active today which is attributed to the war in Ukraine leading to University displacement and the departure of Chinese language instructors due to safety concerns. Some universities announced the creation of Institutes but took no practical steps to commence operations, suggesting a potential political undertone to the decline in CI activity.The article delves into the role of CIs in shaping public opinion about China and its policies. Through cultural events, language courses, and academic programs, Confucius Institutes form public perception of China, influencing views on its culture and political positions, potentially garnering support for China’s stances.The interconnectedness of political events in China and the actions of its “soft power” instruments is demonstrated from history perspectives. The author notes that CI researchers have reached conflicting conclusions. Proponents argue that China is strategically oriented rather than ideologically driven. Critics claim that these institutes may serve as platforms for Chinese propaganda, limiting academic freedom and potentially compromising the autonomy of host institutions.The author concludes that the role of Confucius Institutes in advancing China’s soft power in Ukraine and elsewhere should be viewed in the broader context of foreign policy and cultural interaction strategies. Balancing the benefits of cultural exchange with concerns about potential political influence remains a constant challenge for Ukraine as the host country. If the government is the primary driver of soft power, it tends to be perceived as propaganda, especially if the country pursues an anti-democratic foreign policy and supports authoritarian regimes. Only when soft power is directed through civil society does it avoid such suspicions. Keywords: Confucius Institute (CI); soft power tool; cultural exchange; propaganda; language courses; academic freedom; higher education; internationalization; Peopleʼs Republic of China.