U.S. Public Diplomacy: The Search for a National Strategy

Publication Date: February 2008

Publisher: Heritage Foundation (Washington, D.C.)

Author(s): Helle C. Dale

Research Area: International relations

Keywords: National security; War on terrorism; public diplomacy; strategic communication

Type: Brief

Coverage: United States

Abstract:

Engaging strategically in the war of ideas is crucial to U.S. national security, but U.S. public diplomacy is hampered by a lack of leadership, poor interagency coordination, and a lack of resources to engage foreign audiences. In today's rapidly expanding information universe, efforts to reach foreign audiences need to be more targeted, deliberate, and coordinated than ever before.