Hearts & Minds

U.S. National Strategy for
Public Diplomacy and Strategic Communication)

MISSION AND PRIORITIES
The strength, success and security of the United States of America rest on our commitment to certain fundamental values and principles. These values gave birth to our nation, and govern our actions in the world. We believe all individuals, men and women, are equal and entitled to basic human rights, including freedom of speech, worship and political participation. While the forms of government will vary, we believe all people deserve to live in just societies that protect individual and common rights, fight corruption and are governed by the rule of law. Across the world, America seeks to work with other governments and nations in a spirit of partnership that supports human dignity and fosters peace and progress.
The National Security Strategy of the United States establishes eight national security objectives:
-To champion human dignity;
-To strengthen alliances against terrorism;
-To defuse regional conflicts;
-To prevent threats from weapons of mass destruction;
-To encourage global economic growth;
-To expand the circle of development;
-To cooperate with other centers of global power; and
-To transform America’s national security institutions to meet the challenges and opportunities of the twenty-first century.
Public diplomacy and strategic communication should always strive to support our nation’s fundamental values and national security objectives. All communication and public diplomacy activities should:
-Underscore our commitment to freedom, human rights and the dignity and equality of every human being;
-Reach out to those who share our ideals;
-Support those who struggle for freedom and democracy; and
-Counter those who espouse ideologies of hate and oppression.