How Effective is China's Soft Power Diplomacy in FSM? The University of Guam's FSM Student Perspective

Donaldson, Grace (September 2021). "How Effective is China's Soft Power Diplomacy in FSM? The University of Guam's FSM Student Perspective". Pacific Asia Inquiry. Mangilao, Guam: University of Guam. 12 (1): 302–321. ISSN 2154-5985 .

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Abstract: This article evaluates the effectiveness of China's soft power diplomacy in the Federated States of Micronesia through focus group interviews with FSM students at the University of Guam. It finds that China's influence is viewed as moderately effective, particularly through visible economic assistance, infrastructure development, and educational scholarships. However, participants expressed concerns about potential loss of land, culture, and political autonomy. While perceptions of China are generally neutral-to-positive, the United States remains more favorably viewed overall due to longstanding Compact of Free Association ties. The study concludes that FSM's future leaders are likely to pursue a pragmatic, balanced approach between the U.S. and China, prioritizing economic stability while maintaining cultural and political safeguards.