This book offers an accessible overview of the role sport plays in international relations and diplomacy. Sports diplomacy has previously been defined as an old but under-studied aspect of the estranged relations between peoples, nations and states. These days, it is better understood as the conscious, strategic and ongoing use of sport, sportspeople and sporting events by state and non-state actors to advance policy, trade, development, education, image, reputation, brand, and people-to-people links. In order to better understand the many occasions where sport and diplomacy overlap, this book presents four new, inter-disciplinary and theoretical categories of sports diplomacy: traditional, ‘new’, sport-as-diplomacy, and sports anti-diplomacy. These categories are further validated by a large number of case studies, ranging from the Ancient Olympiad to the recent appearance of esoteric, government sports diplomacy strategies, and beyond, to the activities of non-state sporting actors such as F.C. Barcelona, Colin Kaepernick and the digital world of e-sports. As a result, the landscape of sports diplomacy becomes clearer, as do the pitfalls and limitations of using sport as a diplomatic tool. This book will be of much interest to students of diplomacy, foreign policy, sports studies, and International Relations in general.

This book analyzes the place and role of sport within public diplomacy, including theoretical conceptualizations of the category of sports diplomacy as a sub-category of public diplomacy and empirical research of selected examples of the use of sport within public diplomacy. The empirical part of the book refers to three approaches to sports diplomacy and concerns the utilization of sport by states in order to shape relations with other states, the role of sport in building the international image of a state and the diplomatic subjectivity of international sports organizations. In reference to the first two approaches, the book uses comparative case study was in order to make observations and generalizations concerning sports diplomacy. Apart from that, the book includes a detailed study of the diplomatic subjectivity of the International Olympic Committee.

This book critically discusses the role of sports in nation branding and public diplomacy during the years 2020 and 2022, as the world was going through a global pandemic and health, economic, social, and political crises. The book argues that the use of sports for nation branding and public diplomacy goals is not new, but the changes the world went through required nations, places, communities, and individuals to modify and adapt the ways they use sports for country image purposes. After discussing global changes, the book outlines the theoretical frameworks of nation branding and public diplomacy, and discusses their manifestations through the evolution of the FIFA World Cup, the postponed Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, the role of Title IX in American sports, the European Super League, the Oregon22 World Athletics Championships, the emergence of sport-tech diplomacy, and though the role of sports and the global order in an ever-changing world.

Sports Mediation Sports Diplomacy in Ukraine, Russia, and the World: How to Save Lives by Playing Games By David Hoicka, Mediator in Neutral Singapore In a world torn by conflict, where traditional diplomacy often falls short, an unexpected hero emerges: sports. David Hoicka's groundbreaking book, "Sports Mediation Sports Diplomacy in Ukraine, Russia, and the World: How to Save Lives by Playing Games," offers a compelling exploration of how the universal language of sports can bridge divides, foster dialogue, and pave the way for peace in even the most intractable conflicts. The Power of Play in Peacebuilding Drawing from real-world examples and rigorous research, Hoicka demonstrates how sports, particularly football (soccer), have been used to create neutral spaces for interaction, build trust between adversaries, and provide hope in conflict-ridden regions. From the grassroots initiatives in Mali, Chad, and Libya to the historic moments of "Ping Pong Diplomacy" between the US and China, this book unveils the transformative potential of sports in international relations. At the heart of this narrative lies the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. Hoicka presents innovative strategies for leveraging sports diplomacy to address this crisis, offering a roadmap for policymakers, diplomats, and peace practitioners seeking alternative approaches to conflict resolution. Lessons from the Field Through in-depth case studies, readers will discover: - How the "Clubs de Paix" program in Mali uses football tournaments to bring together diverse ethnic groups, fostering dialogue and reconciliation. - The impact of cross-border sports initiatives in reducing tensions and promoting cooperation in conflict-affected regions. - The role of high-profile athletes as peace ambassadors, using their influence to promote understanding and unity. Hoicka's analysis goes beyond mere anecdotes, providing a comprehensive framework for implementing effective sports diplomacy programs. He addresses critical challenges such as ensuring participant safety, securing sustainable funding, and measuring long-term impact. A Call to Action This book is not just an academic treatise; it is a call to action for all those invested in building a more peaceful world. Hoicka makes a compelling case for integrating sports diplomacy into broader peacebuilding and development strategies, arguing that the universal appeal of sports offers a unique opportunity to reach individuals and communities where traditional diplomatic efforts have faltered. "Sports Mediation Sports Diplomacy in Ukraine, Russia, and the World" offers invaluable insights for: - Policymakers and diplomats seeking innovative approaches to conflict resolution - Sports organizations looking to leverage their platforms for social impact - NGOs and peace practitioners working in conflict-affected regions - Academics and students in the fields of international relations, conflict studies, and sports sociology Why This Book Matters In an era of increasing global tensions, Hoicka's work provides a beacon of hope and a practical roadmap for harnessing the power of sports to save lives and promote peace. By highlighting the successes of sports diplomacy initiatives around the world, this book challenges us to reimagine the role of sports in society and international relations. As the conflict between Ukraine and Russia continues to unfold, the lessons and strategies presented in this book offer a timely and crucial perspective on alternative pathways to peace. Hoicka's unique position as a mediator in neutral Singapore lends credibility and depth to his analysis, providing readers with a balanced and nuanced understanding of the complexities involved in sports diplomacy. "Sports Mediation Sports Diplomacy in Ukraine, Russia, and the World: How to Save Lives by Playing Games" is more than just a book – it's a roadmap for hope, a toolkit for peace, and a testament to the enduring power of human connection through play. Whether you're a seasoned diplomat, a sports enthusiast, or simply someone who believes in the possibility of a more peaceful world, this book will inspire you to see the transformative potential of sports in a whole new light. Join David Hoicka on this enlightening journey and discover how the games we play can become powerful instruments for change, bringing us one step closer to a world where conflicts are resolved not on battlefields, but on playing fields. In these pages, you'll find not just analysis, but hope – hope that even in the darkest of times, the universal language of sports can light the way towards understanding, reconciliation, and lasting peace.

The SAGE Handbook of Diplomacy provides a major thematic overview of Diplomacy and its study that is theoretically and historically informed and in sync with the current and future needs of diplomatic practice . Original contributions from a brilliant team of global experts are organised into four thematic sections: Section One: Diplomatic Concepts & Theories Section Two: Diplomatic Institutions Section Three: Diplomatic Relations Section Four: Types of Diplomatic Engagement

Sport has come to have an increasingly large impact on daily life and commerce across the globe. From mega-events, such as the World Cup or Super Bowl, to the early socialization of children into sport, the study of sport and society has developed as a distinctly wide-ranging scholarly enterprise, centered in sociology, sport studies, and cultural, media, and gender studies. In The Oxford Handbook of Sport and Society, Lawrence Wenner brings together contributions from the world's leading scholars on sport and society to create the premier comprehensive and interdisciplinary reference for scholars and students looking to understand key areas of inquiry about the role and impacts of sport in contemporary culture. The Handbook offers penetrating analyses of the key ways that today's outsized sport is integrated into the lives of both athletes and fans and increasingly shapes the social fabric and cultural logics across the world. Featuring 85 leading international scholars, the volume is organized into six sections: society and values, enterprise and capital, participation and cultures, lifespan and careers, inclusion and exclusion, and spectator engagement and media. To aid comprehension and comparison, each chapter opens with a brief introduction to the area of research and features a common organizational scheme with three main sections of key issues, approaches, and debates to guide scholars and students to what is currently most important in the study of each area. Written at an accessible level and offering rich resources to further study each topic, this handbook is an essential resource for scholars and students as well as general readers who wish to understand the growing social, cultural, political, and economic influences of sport in society and our everyday lives.

The current monograph is the result of many years of work by the author in the field of the understudied concept of network diplomacy and the possibilities of using it in resolving sharp conflicts in order to facilitate their more effective resolution, as well as the possibilities of using the elements of network diplomacy in peaceful spheres of world politics, business and private sector. The main part of the book consists of case-studies that are dedicated to the possible use of network diplomacy in "problem" zones (the Libyan crisis, the conflict in Syria, the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, the armed conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh), as well as in areas of peaceful coexistence (international sport, culture and humanitarian ties, twin cities, cross years etc). Some chapters are particularly dedicated to Russia’s possible involvement in network solutions to the conflicts. This study will offer insights into how Russian diplomats are hoping to build a new peace today.

This is the first book to offer a comprehensive overview of the history and development of sport from the ancient to the contemporary era in China. It addresses the gap between the vibrant academic scholarship within China and the limited understanding of Chinese sport outside of the country. It opens different perspectives on Chinese sport and addresses a wide range of issues central to the development of sport in the context of Chinese culture, politics, economy, and society. It explores a diverse set of topics including the history of Chinese traditional sport, the rise of modern sport and the Olympic movement, sport and nationhood, sport and politics and international relations, sport and physical education, sport and economy and commerce, sport and social stratification and diversity, and sport leisure and tourism. It offers critical insights into the multifaceted world of China, past and present—a contribution to our collective knowledge and understanding of Chinese sport and society—and is useful reading for students, researchers, and professionals with an interest in the field of China and Chinese sport. This Handbook has been contributed to by a team consisting of 88 leading Chinese and Asian experts and scholars with varied backgrounds of studying and working in European, North American, and Australian universities, as well as Western scholars with expertise on China and its sports system and practice. It is composed of ten parts classified by different subjects. It provides a wide lens through which to better contextualise the relationships between China and the world within the global sport community. The Routledge Handbook of Sport in China is a vital resource for students and scholars studying the history, politics, sociology, culture and policy of sport in China, as well as sport management, sport history, sport sociology, and sport policy and politics. It is also valuable reading for those who are working in international sport policy making and sport organisations.

In the essays collected here, amateurism, both as ideology and practice, is subject to critical and unsentimental scrutiny, effectively challenging the dominant narrative of more conventional histories of British sport.

This handbook examines the study of international relations (IR) in Russia, giving a comprehensive analysis of historical, theoretic-conceptual, geographical, and institutional aspects. It identifies the place and role of Russia in global IR and discusses the factors that facilitate or impede the development of Russian IR studies. The contributors represent diverse Russian regions and IR schools and offer an overview of different intellectual traditions and key IR paradigms in the post-Soviet era. Filling the vacuum in international understanding of the Russian perspective on pivotal international issues, they demonstrate the continuity and change in Russia’s international policy course over the past three decades and explain how different foreign policy schools and concepts have affected Russian foreign policy making and the decision-making process. Providing a unique contribution to the discussion on non-Western IR theory, this handbook will appeal to scholars and students of international relations, Russian studies, world politics, and international studies.