Public Affairs: A Strategic Communication Force Multiplier
Abstract
As the 10th anniversary of 9/11 approaches many, both in and out of government, are concerned that the United States is losing the war on terror. This growing concern can be linked, in many ways, to overall national strategic communication (SC) efforts. Gaining ground in the war on terror will not come from kinetic actions alone. It is essential that the U.S. appropriately tailor the messages delivered to the international community. Unfortunately, the U.S. hasn't been overly successful in this endeavor and there is much work to be done to improve SC efforts within the Department of Defense (DOD). Defense Department senior officials have determined that the employment of strategic communication is a means to achieving strategic ends. Given the recurring challenges with the employment of SC, the most effective way to achieve noted strategic ends is through the utilization of PA as a strategic communication force multiplier. This paper examines the evolving nature of SC, reviews current joint doctrine and identifies gaps in guidance, analyzes the efforts in executing SC across the combatant commands and explores leveraging PA as an SC enabler. This paper concludes with recommendations for the future development of SC execution guidance given the recent review directed by the Secretary of Defense (SECDEF).
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 04, 2011
- Accession Number
- ADA545961
Entities
People
- Kirsten G. Aguilar
Organizations
- Naval War College