Scientific Diplomacy in the Service of Socialism: the USSR and the Popular Unity in Chile

Abstract

In Chilean history, the period of Unidad Popular (1970—1973) occupies a special place, becoming an event of world importance. The policy of the USSR in Chile in previous years and during the years of the rule of the left forces occupied an important place in the internal processes in this country. Since the restoration of diplomatic relations in 1964, relations between our countries have developed in an ascending line, culminating in the years of Unidad Popular. This article examines such a little-studied aspect of these relations as the use of “soft power”, namely scientific diplomacy for ideological and political influence on Chilean society. Scientific diplomacy on the part of Soviet scientists in Chile covered not only the natural and usual spheres of interaction in the field of scientific exchange and university cooperation, but also expressed itself in the field of social activity, in political actions and campaigns of commemoration of historical events important both for the Soviet policy and for the left, socialist forces in Chile. Soviet scientists were directly involved in political actions in Chile, both with their work and public activity sought to support local leftist forces, primarily the communists.