| Sports Diplomacy: The Connection Between Soft Power and Global Good Governance in International Relations |
| Paper ID : 1617-SPORTCONGRESS |
| Authors |
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bahareh nekoonam *1, sajed fattah2, aram moradi3 1Assistant professor of sport science department, Rahman Institute of Higher Education, Ramsar, Mazandaran, Iran 2Master's degree student in sports management, Rahman Institute of Higher Education, Ramsar, Iran. 3Assistant professor of sport science department, Rahman Institute of Higher Education, Ramsar,Mazandaran,Iran |
| Abstract |
| Sports diplomacy, as a novel tool in international relations, offers unparalleled potential to enhance global cooperation through culture, peace, and sustainable development. This study focuses on analyzing its role in shaping international relations by exploring the concepts of soft power (non-binding diplomatic tools) and global good governance (principles of transparency, accountability, and sustainability in international sports organizations). The primary objective is to propose practical strategies for improving the management of sports diplomacy at national and global levels, emphasizing the link between soft power, the impact of good governance, and the role of sustainable development. The research employs a qualitative approach, utilizing content analysis and case study methods. Data are gathered from international documents (such as the International Olympic Committee Charter and FIFA reports) and two key events (the 2008 Beijing Olympics and the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia), analyzed through thematic coding based on Joseph Nye’s framework. Findings indicate that soft power, facilitated by sports agreements, and organizational transparency derived from good governance, strengthen diplomacy, though challenges such as sports washing and environmental unsustainability persist. It is recommended that developing countries enhance their international standing by adopting good governance principles and integrating sustainability into sports initiatives. |
| Keywords |
| Sports Diplomacy, Soft Power, Good Governance, International Relations, Sustainable Development |
| Status: Abstract Accepted (Oral Presentation) |
