China’s Soft Power in Sudan: Increasing Activity but How Effective?

Abstract

In much of the international press, China’s intentions in Sudan and South Sudan are questioned, especially with regard to its energy interests. Very little study has been undertaken of either local views, or local media coverage, of China in Sudan. In this chapter, I will attempt to examine how Chinese soft power is presented in Sudanese publications, as well as the extent to which China actually has a soft power presence—through its Confucian Institutes, humanitarian projects, and development assistance. Through examining these components of Chinese soft power, it should be possible to critically assess the extent and level of success Chinese soft power has in Sudan.