Thai Buddhism and Diplomacy: Historical Foundations, Religious Soft Power, and Contemporary Challenges
Keywords:
Thai Buddhist diplomacy, religious soft power, public diplomacyAbstract
This paper explores the role of Thai Buddhism as religious soft power in the public diplomacy of Thailand by examining its application of ethical language, institutions, and overseas networks in foreign exchanges. Additionally, diverse diplomatic values are compared in different situations. A structured review of English-language scholarship, historical institutional analysis, and contemporary case studies of a multilateral Buddhist platform, Buddhist-linked humanitarian engagement, and overseas Thai temples are included. The historical relationship between Thai Buddhism, the monarchy and state authority is traced, with credibility factors shaping contemporary practice analyzed. Results are that Thai Buddhist diplomacy has enhanced its influence and promoted continuous interaction through moral narratives, international forums, and transnational networks, but effects vary by context and credibility. Domestic Sangha disputes and perceptions of politicization or state intervention may weaken religious authority, while increasing competition from China and India might prevent expansion of influence by Thailand. This concession between credibility and autonomy in Buddhist diplomacy is explained with suggestions for improving credibility and continuity.
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