Vaccine Diplomacy as a Form of Soft Power: The Successful Case of Türkiye

Abstract

The coronavirus pandemic has been raging across the globe for more than two years, claiming over 6 million lives and severely upending daily routines. It is no wonder that the production and distribution of COVID-19 vaccines, known as the most effective and widespread tool in the fight against this sad chapter in recent history, has become an essential element of international politics. Both the race for geopolitical leverage and the emerging health technologies have affected Ankara, which has been seeking its niche in the post-COVID-19 international system. Though its Sputnik V vaccine deal with Russia casted doubt on Türkiye’s intentions as part of the Euro-Atlantic common front, the country has emerged as a generous humanitarian aid provider and secured its place among a handful of nations who can boast homegrown SARS-CoV-2 vaccines. This article uses the soft power theoretical framework to analyze Türkiye’s vaccine diplomacy and its role in the country’s efforts to maintain and boost its stakes in the global power configuration.