Hard power refers to the use of force or coercion to influence or control other actors. This concept has found its place in the literature indirectly after the definition of the concept of “soft power” by Joseph Nye in the 1990s. This concept refers to the use of military and economic tools to achieve a country’s goals and increase its influence on the global stage. Another important effect is that it acts as a deterrent, preventing potential enemies from taking actions that would harm a country’s interests. In short, hard power is about using force or coercion to achieve national goals and influence other states.

• Nye, J. S. (2004). Soft power: The means to success in world politics. PublicAffairs.