Examining the Impact of Social Media on Iran’s International Image and Its Utilization for Enhancing Soft Power

Abstract

The emergence of social media has played an unparalleled role in shaping public opinion, fostering cultural norms, and influencing international relations. These platforms, due to their extensive reach, persuasive power, and ability to simultaneously reflect social realities, have provided an opportunity to highlight the soft power of nations. The objective of this study is to examine the impact of social media on Iran’s international image and to elucidate the role of soft power in enhancing Iran’s global standing. This research is quantitative in nature and employs a survey method. The statistical population consists of 190 experts and specialists in communications and political science from the University of Tehran, Shahid Beheshti University, and the School of International Relations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Based on Morgan’s table, a sample of 44 participants was selected. The data collection tool was a researcher-designed questionnaire, whose validity was confirmed by experts, and reliability was verified using Cronbach’s alpha (0.78). The findings indicated a significant and positive relationship between the soft power of the Islamic Republic of Iran and its impact on social media (correlation coefficient = 0.815). Additionally, soft power demonstrated a direct and strong correlation with components such as awareness-raising (0.758), agenda-setting (0.655), opinion expression (0.585), and the creation of national and transnational solidarity (0.805). The results revealed that strengthening soft power in social media facilitates increased public awareness, reinforces national and transnational cohesion, and counters biased narratives. Therefore, policymaking in this domain can contribute to enhancing Iran’s international position.