Paper Title
The Power of Soft Power: Influence in International Relations

Abstract
Soft power, as defined by Joseph Nye, is the ability to influence through attraction rather than coercion. This paper analyzes how the United States, China, and the European Union apply soft power. The U.S. relies on cultural exports and innovation, while China uses initiatives like the Belt and Road and Confucius Institutes. The EU emphasizes values, development aid, and multilateralism. Each faces challenges: internal division, political skepticism, or conflicting global perceptions. The study underscores the strategic importance of soft power in shaping international relations in a multipolar, interconnected world. Keywords - soft power, international relations, diplomacy, cultural influence, global governance.