The Role of Public Affairs in Low Intensity Conflict.
Abstract
Despite a lack of full understanding of the concept, Low Intensity Conflict (LIC) continues to be the most likely type of conflict which will involve US military forces. Public information and the media are major factors in the LIC environment and necessitate a more prominent role for a heretofore neglected military function in this arena, Public Affairs. All LIC operational areas have significant requirements for public affairs. Grenada and counterterrorism operations have highlighted media relations, however, public affairs involvement must be more comprehensive, incorporating command information and community relations. Public Affairs is not fully integrated into planning and Public Affairs personnel seldom participate as players in exercise scenarios. To be an effective force in supporting LIC operations, the Public Affairs Officer must be considered a part of the warfighting staff. Public Affairs emphasis in exercises must originate at DoD and JCS level. The unified command PAO must have a more sophisticated and expansive view of his role, to include public diplomacy and coordination with psychological operations. Training for PAO's especially those being assigned to unified commands must include a LIC orientation. A change in attitude in the military toward the role of the media and the PAO must be accomplished. New attitudes, new ideas and innovative application of military capabilities are the only way the complexities of LIC can be successfully encountered.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 23, 1987
- Accession Number
- ADA180213
Entities
People
- James M. Kelly
Organizations
- United States Army War College