(Washington, D.C.) Congressman Mac Thornberry today introduced two pieces of legislation aimed at improving U.S. national security and foreign policy.

"As the United States moves forward in the Global War on Terror, we should not underestimate the importance of effective diplomacy and strategic communication," Thornberry said. 

"Our ability to communicate our national values of democracy and freedom must begin with a deep, comprehensive understanding of other cultures," Thornberry continued.  "Strategic communication is a massive job and a crucial aspect of our national security, but right now we don't give it the attention or resources it deserves.  What we need most is coordinated leadership when it comes to diplomacy and strategic communication."

To help fix this problem, H.R. 2800, the Strategic Communication Act, creates a Center for Strategic Communication that would exist outside of government and be cooperative partnership between government and the private sector.  The non-partisan, non-profit Center would provide the government with a deeper understand of other countries and cultures.  It would also advise policymakers on communication strategies, as well as how best to make decisions related to national security, foreign affairs, and diplomacy.

Strategic communication describes the tools our government uses to understand the attitudes, languages, values, and cultures of other countries, as well as those we use to promote our ideas and messages abroad.  It encompasses public diplomacy, public affairs, international broadcasting, and information operations. 

Thornberry also introduced H.R. 2799, the Quadrennial Foreign Affairs Review Act, which would require a review of the diplomatic strategy, structure, and programs of the Department of State every four years. 

"There have been dramatic changes to the world around us, especially when it comes to technology, religion, terrorism, and the global economy.  But our foreign policy apparatus remains largely unchanged," Thornberry said. "We've got to make sure that the State Department has the strategy and structure necessary to meet the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century, and that it remains accountable to our foreign policy objectives."

"In addition to military conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, we face political and ideological struggles that must be won with moral authority, credible diplomacy, and persuasive communication," Thornberry concluded.  "International partnerships and alliances will only increase in importance in the future.  With this in mind, we must demand excellence from all agencies of our government, as well as effective coordination between them in fighting the Global War on Terror."

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