MARCA-PAÍS AS A STRATEGY FOR GLOBAL TOURISM POSITIONING AND NATIONAL IDENTITY: the case of Brazil.
Marca-país; Nation Branding; Tourism; Public Diplomacy; Positioning Theory.
In the contemporary global scenario, competition among countries to attract tourists, investment, and international recognition is intense. In this context, nation branding has emerged as a recent concept in international relations, acting as a tool for managing and promoting states' external tourism image and reputation. Objective: The general objective of this study is to analyze, through international representatives, the role of nation branding as a strategic tool in building Brazil's country brand, tourism positioning, and national identity. The specific objectives are: a) to understand the foundations of public diplomacy and its relationship with nation branding; b) to understand the theoretical connections between nation branding, country branding, and tourism, with an emphasis on positioning theory; c) to outline the role of Brazilian nation branding through the country's diplomatic agents. Methodology: This work uses a qualitative, exploratory, and descriptive approach. This research is based on an in-depth literature review that seeks to analyze existing knowledge and map its relationship with Brazilian reality. In addition, in-depth interviews with diplomatic authorities will be conducted. Expected Results: The research should provide an understanding of the concept of nation branding and its applicability in the Brazilian context, highlighting its origins, evolution, and application in the tourism context. The study should also outline the relevance of nation branding to Brazilian tourism through diplomatic practices.