Muay Thai as Soft Power: Diplomacy A Sport Towards Olympic Recognition

This study analyzes how Thailand uses Muay Thai as a soft power tool in sports diplomacy, specifically in its efforts to secure Muay Thai's official Olympic status. Using a qualitative case study approach, this study examines the strategies and policies implemented by state and non-state actors to promote Muay Thai globally. Joseph Nye’s soft power theoretical framework and the concept of sports diplomacy provide a foundation for understanding how local culture can be used to enhance a country’s international image and influence. The findings show that Thailand actively uses Muay Thai not only as a national cultural heritage but also as a diplomatic instrument through international training, global competitions, and collaborations with world sports organizations. These efforts strengthen Thailand’s position on the international stage and support its aspirations to include Muay Thai in the Olympic Games. From this, it can answer the question: how does Thailand use Muay Thai as a soft power tool in sports diplomacy to encourage its recognition as an Olympic sport?