Turkish public diplomacy as a soft power element in Türkiye-Somalia relations

Türkiye and Somalia's bilateral relations has intensified in 2011 when Türkiye provided extensive humanitarian aid to Somalia during a drought that claimed at least 260,000 lives. Despite security challenges and political instability in Somalia, Türkiye's humanitarian efforts have made a visible difference. Since then, relations between the two countries have expanded to cover various sectors, including political, economic, social, and security. Türkiye's activities in Somalia have given Türkiye credibility and a positive image in the eyes of both the Somali people and the international community. Türkiye has also supported its activities in Somalia by drawing attention to the Somali issue in international forums, where Turkish leaders have tried to put Somalia on the international agenda. Türkiye's efforts toward Somalia, both in Somalia and on the international platforms, have created a positive image and sympathy for Türkiye among the Somali people. This study examines the role of Turkish public diplomacy in developing Türkiye's positive image and reputation in Somalia. The study underlines that Türkiye's extensive public diplomacy has made Türkiye–Somalia relations multidimensional. The study also argues that Turkish public diplomacy is the main factor that provides Türkiye with a positive image, reputation, and legitimacy in Somalia. Furthermore, the study highlights the role of historical interaction and common religion between the two countries as supporting factors for the acceptance of Turkish public diplomacy activities in Somalia.