The United States' COVID-19 Vaccine Diplomacy Strategy:

A Case Study of Thailand in the Context of U.S.-China Rivalry

Abstract

This study explores the United States’ COVID-19 vaccine diplomacy strategy, using Thailand as a case study in the context of U.S.-China rivalry. Vaccine diplomacy was used as a soft power tool during the pandemic. The research aims to explore whether U.S. vaccine diplomacy enhanced its soft power in Thailand more effectively than China’s, and to assess its impact and implications for future global health governance and diplomatic positioning. It fills both practical and theoretical knowledge gaps concerning the deployment of global health tools to exert strategic influence. Using qualitative research and thematic analysis, the study draws on semi-structured interviews with experts from public health and foreign affairs sectors, supported by analysis of official documents, policy reports, and media sources. Findings reveal that although China first provided vaccine donations, public skepticism around the efficacy of inactivated vaccines curbed its long-term contribution. On the other hand, the U.S., with a sluggish start, had public trust in mRNA technology and a multilateral distribution strategy, to reap more lasting soft power returns. Thailand’s achievement of neutrality illustrates middle powers’ strategic resilience in global crises. The study suggests increased investment in the health sector, increased domestic vaccine manufacturing, balanced foreign policy, improved public diplomacy, and equitable access to vaccines. Future research should explore the long-term impact of vaccine diplomacy, its relations with hard power, its effectiveness in enhancing soft power, and its implications for pandemic preparedness and domestic political dynamics.