American Diplomacy and Military Strategy
Abstract
The model formerly used to create national military strategy has been rendered obsolete by changes that have profoundly affected the entire foreign policy community. Gone are the days when a president aided by a few Cabinet members and their staffs could quietly construct a national strategy from which a military strategy would be derived. The simple, direct relationship between diplomacy, military strategy and economic policy that previously defined a coordinated national strategy no longer exists. What is left is a much more complex and poorly defined system of relationships with an evergrowing number of players. As such, the traditional relationship between warriors and diplomats needs to change. What was marginally sufficient in the old model may be dangerously inadequate to meet our future national challenges. Despite the valiant efforts of a concerned minority, there is ample evidence that the rank and file military and Foreign Service Officers are growing further apart and are less aware of their need for one another. Current laws and policies actually penalize the pay and promotions of many non-military government employees who would otherwise be willing to work closely with other agencies. In fact, much needs to be done today to build bridges over the institutional and cultural gaps between these communities so that they can effectively interact with the numerous players in foreign policy. Of great significance are the roles, agendas and influence of Congress, the Press, NGOs (Non-Governmental Organizations), single-issue advocacy groups and other legislated federal agencies.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 05, 2000
- Accession Number
- ADA380063
Entities
People
- Thomas H. Tutt
Organizations
- United States Army War College