Nation branding

Nation branding aims to measure, build and manage the reputation of countries (closely related to place branding). In the book Diplomacy in a Globalizing World: Theories and Practices, the authors define nation branding as "the application of corporate marketing concepts and techniques to countries, in the interests of enhancing their reputation in international relations."[1] Many nations try to make brands in order to build relationships between different actors that are not restricted to nations. It extends to public and private sectors in a nation and helps with nationalism. States also want to participate in multilateral projects.[2] Some approaches applied, such as an increasing importance on the symbolic value of products, have led countries to emphasize their distinctive characteristics. The branding and image of a nation-state "and the successful transference of this image to its exports - is just as important as what they actually produce and sell."[3] This is also referred to as country-of-origin effect.

Nation branding is a developing field in which scholars continue their search for a unified theoretical framework. Many nations are aiming to improve their country's standing, as the image and reputation of a nation can heavily influence its economic vitality. They seek to attract tourism and investment capital, increase exports, attract a talented and creative workforce, and enhance their cultural and political influence in the world. Different ways that nation project their nation brand include export, foreign direct investment, and tourism. One example of exporting products is that Germany is known for their motor industry because famous car companies like Mercedes, Audi, and BMW are all German companies. An example of foreign direct investments that help the nation brand are US companies building maquiladoras and other European countries having factories in different countries.[4]

  1. ^ Kerr, Pauline (2013). Diplomacy in a globalizing world : theories and practices. New York: Oxford University Press, USA. p. 354. ISBN 978-0-19-976448-8. OCLC 794367115.
  2. ^ Pamment, James (2013). New Public Diplomacy in the 21st Century A comparative study of policy and practice. New York: Routledge. pp. 35–36.
  3. ^ True, Jacqui (2006). Raymond Miller (ed.). Globalisation and Identity. South Melbourne: Oxford University Press. p. 74. ISBN 978-0-19-558492-9.
  4. ^ Olins, Wally (2005). "Making a National Brand". In Melissen, Jan (ed.). The New Public Diplomacy Soft Power in International Relations. New York: Palgrave Macmillan. p. 169-179. ISBN 9781403945167.