World’s Cognizance of Oman

In the modern era and new world order, especially after the new millennium, some international actors have resurrected such as non-governmental organizations, think tanks, and individuals, and some have emerged as effective international actors and tools such as social media, global media, and transboundary world publics. Those actors and tools play significant roles in shaping a country's global image and cognizance. Today, a country's cognizance in the world arena is becoming increasingly important, as it indicates the assets and soft power of the country in the modern world. Diplomacy is one of the most important tools in building a positive image of a country. The inimitable Omani foreign policy has succeeded in the country’s establishing and maintaining friendly relationships with countries throughout the world and has enabled it to become known as a reliable mediator in the resolution of several conflicts in the Middle East region such as the Iran Nuclear Deal in 2015. Nevertheless, is classical diplomacy enough to increase the global cognizance and image of a country in today's vertiginous world? To understand the level of Omani cognizance in the world public, two projects were launched. First, any broadcasted news related to Oman was checked in regionally selected 17 countries on six continents to examine the global media coverage during the period between 2011 and 2022. Second, a survey was launched in 63 countries with more than 500 respondents physically and virtually to measure the knowledge of the world public about Oman. Interesting findings were found. One of the important findings of the project and surveys is that Oman remains largely unknown by the world’s public despite its noteworthy and constructive functions within the region and widespread reputation as a peaceful country within a conflictual region. It is a problematic situation for Oman in today's public diplomacy world. Therefore, the article ends with the policy alternatives of running public diplomacy in selected countries to revive its world cognizance.