SPOTLIGHT - SOFT POWER AND REGIONAL - INFLUENCE: THE ROLE OF THE

SPOTLIGHT SOFT POWER AND REGIONAL Hafford Norea INFLUENCE: THE ROLE OF THE PROPOSED PNG NRL TEAM IN GEOPOLITICS Volume 17, Issue 13 www.pngnri.org • The potential inclusion of a Papua New Guinea (PNG) team in the Australian National Rugby League (NRL) goes beyond Key merely expanding the league; it represents a strategic alliance promising mutual benefits and a strategy for national unity. [...] This initiative leverages addressed to ensure the success and sustainability of the the unifying power of sports to achieve broader political initiative. [...] The between the team and fans, organising community success of the NRL team can motivate young people events, and fostering a sense of ownership and pride to engage in sports, leading to increased physical among local supporters. [...] This includes To untap the potential benefits and address the challenges, developing sports infrastructure in rural areas and effective and comprehensive strategies must be implemented. [...] This framework should involve stakeholders from both Australia The inclusion of a PNG team in the Australian NRL has the and PNG, ensuring collaborative decision-making potential to bring forth numerous positive outcomes for both and trust-building.