The Soft Power of Bhutan

In the international system, small states are often perceived as weak states. This perception, however, is not always correct. Size is not always indicative of the potential for power nor does it augur a state’s ability to attract. Unable to rely on traditional power capabilities, small states can use soft power to achieve their goals. This paper examines how Bhutan is using soft power to achieve its foreign policy goals. It draws upon exclusive data obtained from primary sources collected by the author during her fieldwork in Bhutan (2009, 2011, 2014) and India (2014). Interviews were conducted with Bhutanese elites and representatives from other countries and international institutions based in Bhutan or India.

 Key Words: Small States, Soft Power, Foreign Policy, Bhutan