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Publication Date: December 2007
Publisher: Heritage Foundation (Washington, D.C.)
Author(s): Juliana Geran Pilon
Research Area: International relations; Media, telecommunications, and information
Keywords: National security; public diplomacy; voice of america; USIA
Type: Report
Coverage: United States
Abstract:
Section 501 of the U.S. Information and Educational Exchange Act of 1948 (Smith-Mundt Act) prohibits domestic dissemination of information designed for foreign consumption, ostensibly to ban "domestic propaganda." In the war on terrorism, this amounts to self-sabotage. Until Congress relegates this piece of legislation to the dustbin of history, the U.S. cannot expect to conduct public diplomacy effectively.