Balance key as Gulf states’ soft power grows |
https://arab.news/weked
At a recent international conference on geopolitics that I attended, a prominent speaker discussed the growing influence of the Gulf states. Political commentators, analytical papers, and research studies are repeatedly highlighting this growing role and influence. This is not us claiming leadership, this is international recognition of the shift in how power is exercised in the region, especially in terms of mediation and humanitarian aid when considering the receding role of the usual Western powers, particularly the US.
Over the past decade, the Gulf states have emerged as indispensable actors in mediation and humanitarian aid. From facilitating prisoner exchanges and ceasefire talks to underwriting large-scale humanitarian responses, Gulf states have positioned themselves as brokers in crises that extend well beyond their borders.
As with other countries, Gulf states use mediation and humanitarian aid to project influence, stabilize regions, and meet geopolitical goals. Whether through UN organizations or bilateral agreements for reconstruction efforts, funding education and health programs, vocational training and development projects, Gulf diplomacy skillfully blends substantial financial aid with active mediation to achieve tangible political and strategic outcomes, solidifying these states’ roles as significant regional actors.
At its core,........