The Real Academia Española and the Spanish Defense's strategic studies institute presented a book titled "Geopolítica del español" in Madrid [1].
The publication examines how the Spanish language serves as a critical instrument of soft power, allowing Spain to project cultural influence and diplomatic leverage globally. By analyzing the intersection of linguistics and international relations, the work seeks to formalize the strategic value of a shared language in achieving political and economic goals.
The book was presented on March 4, 2024 [1]. The project involved a collaboration between the Real Academia Española (RAE) and the Instituto Español de Estudios Estratégicos (IEE) of the Spanish Defense [1].
High-level state involvement underscored the importance of the initiative. King Felipe VI provided the prologue for the volume, and former President Felipe González participated in the presentation [1]. The event focused on the role of the language in promoting international cooperation and cultural reach.
Organizers said the objective is to highlight and promote the role of Spanish in international cultural influence [1]. The text explores how linguistic ties can be leveraged to strengthen bilateral relations, and enhance the visibility of Spanish-speaking nations in global governance.
By framing the language as a geopolitical asset, the RAE and IEE aim to provide a framework for understanding how cultural affinity translates into political capital. This approach treats the spread and standardization of the language not merely as an academic pursuit, but as a strategic necessity for the state [1].
“The publication examines how the Spanish language serves as a critical instrument of soft power.”
The collaboration between a linguistic authority and a defense institute signals a shift toward viewing cultural assets as strategic security interests. By formalizing the 'geopolitics' of language, Spain is attempting to systematize its soft power to maintain relevance and influence in a multipolar world where cultural ties often precede formal diplomatic and economic agreements.
