카타르의 국가정체성의 형성과 소프트 파워 전략

Abstract

In the 21st century, the reconfiguration of regional order in the Middle East has prompted small and medium-sized states to explore strategic responses aimed at securing survival, autonomy, and influence within the constraints of limited resources. Qatar, situated in the Gulf region, is relatively disadvantaged in terms of traditional measures of national power—such as population, military strength, and territorial size—yet it has actively pursued an independent foreign policy grounded in soft power. This strategy not only seeks to enhance Qatar's international image and status but also serves political objectives, particularly in fortifying national identity and legitimizing governance. Given Qatar's geopolitical position between regional powers such as Saudi Arabia, Iran, and the UAE, a strategy focused on intangible influence has proven more effective than one relying on physical assets. Qatar has employed a range of soft power tools, including the establishment of Al Jazeera, the hosting of major sporting events, and the renovation of national museums. These tools have served as mechanisms for cultivating international consensus on Qatar's national identity and fostering domestic unity. However, Qatar’s soft power strategy extends beyond mere state branding or diplomatic means; it is intrinsically linked to the formation of national identity and the preservation of ontological security. Through an analysis of Qatar’s historical identity reconstruction, media strategy, utilization of mega-events, and cultural policies, this study investigates how Qatar integrates soft power with national security concerns. By applying ontological security theory and Joseph Nye's concept of soft power, the research aims to elucidate how small states like Qatar can employ soft power as a core strategy in the formation of national identity and the pursuit of autonomy and influence on the global stage.