The Role of the Beijing Olympics in China's Public Diplomacy

The 2008 Beijing Olympics were ardently sought, lavishly staged and hugely successful. China successfully used the Olympics as a tool of public diplomacy with a positive impact on its politics, economics and environment. But how did Beijing beat the odds to stage the most spectacular Olympic event in history; and with what impact? China’s Public Diplomacy is reinforced and undercut by authoritarianism… Yet, global status demands more transparency and greater accountability. As PD becomes increasingly indispensable in the management of external affairs, China’s Olympic experience offers wider lessons. This book examines a topical issue of growing currency and wide relevancy to PD; puts the Olympics in a national and international context; highlights the paradox of China’s Public Diplomacy; underscores China’s successful national brand image as an emerging global power; offers valuable insights into deeper understanding of the rising China and its importance as a workshop of the world. The book is, therefore, a pleasant, interesting and invaluable reading for students and practitioners of diplomacy as well as those interested in modern China and contemporary international relations.