Soft power is one of our greatest national assets, and one we must protect
4 min read
Britain’s influence in the world depends upon three strands of foreign policy: defensive military preparedness; economic clout; and our soft power.
This country’s unique ability and positioning to influence other countries without firing a bullet or threatening sanctions is less tangible — but no less powerful. From education and culture to values and relationships, this quiet strength is one of our greatest national assets, and one we must protect.
As chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for the British Council and Soft Power, and as chair of the British Group Inter-Parliamentary Union, I see first-hand how these tools shape perceptions of the UK internationally. In Westminster, diplomacy is often discussed in terms of treaties and defence budgets, but real influence is built through people-to-people connections: cultural exchanges; educational opportunities; and long-term partnerships. These foster trust, promote British values, and help us to build alliances in regions where authoritarianism is on the rise.
The British Council is central to this effort. With offices in over 100 countries, it connects the UK to young people, educators, artists, and future leaders. This isn’t just cultural outreach — it’s strategic. It strengthens democracy, counters disinformation, and builds resilience against authoritarian influence — all unashamedly British values that we should continue be proud of.
Those values, however, are under attack. Last month, Russia’s strike on Kyiv damaged the city’s British Council building and killed at least 23 people. It was more than an assault on Ukraine’s capital — it was a direct hit on an institution that embodies British values.
However, soft power is not just limited to the British Council. The BBC World Service is globally respected for its independent journalism. The Premier League showcases through football our diversity and openness to millions every week. Programmes like the John Smith Trust build relationships with emerging leaders in fragile states. These are not luxuries, they are strategic assets. Such vital institutions touch the people who need it most – those suffering from internal repression from their own governments, those in countries where climate change is posing an existential threat and those who live in daily fear of violence.
In order just to maintain our global influence, we must begin to treat soft power as a priority. To expand it, we must go further.
That starts by appointing a government Minister with the sole responsibility of enhancing British soft power. With it, should come co-ordinated and cross-departmental government support, sustained investment guarantees, and political backing for the institutions and individuals who carry out this vital work.
Parliament also has a key role to play and both sides of the House of Commons are brimming with MPs who have lived experience of seeing the reality of our soft power come to fruition. That’s why they are pressing ministers for funding guarantees, engaging in parliamentary diplomacy alongside our allies and partners from across the globe and shaping a consistent narrative about the UK as a trusted, democratic partner.
The Charter of the Commonwealth sets out sixteen core values and principles which have helped to shape the world and improve people’s lives and security. These are the values upon which Britain has thrived and created a foundation of stability:
Democracy; Human rights; International peace and security; Tolerance, respect and understanding; Freedom of Expression; Separation of powers; Rule of law; Good Governance; Sustainable Development; Protecting the environment; Access to health, education, food and shelter; Gender equality; Importance of young people; Recognition of the needs of small states; Recognition of the needs of vulnerable states; and the role of civil society. Sixteen principles which have shaped many formerly failed, undemocratic and uneven states into prosperous, democratic and fair nations.
The Foreign Policy Centre’s latest Soft Power Report could not have been more timely. It serves as an urgent reminder that our influence depends not just on what we say, but on how we are perceived. If we invest in our strengths, we won’t just respond to global challenges, we’ll help shape the solutions.
