Via the DIME Page at Carlisle Barracks a new memo (dated 25 January 2011) from the Secretary of Defense on Strategic Communication and Information Operations. I’ve uploaded a copy at the bottom of the post.
The main thrust of this on a first reading is the need to see IO and SC as integrating function applying across all activities rather than as a set of capabilities. A couple of items that strike me are that the responsibility for IO moves from the Undersecretary of Defence (Intelligence) to USD Policy with the intention of creating a better policy integration. There is a new definition of IO that gives more attention to the integrating function.
Responsibility for Strategic Communication will be shared between USD (P) and the Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs. The position of the Global Engagement Strategic Coordination Committee will be formalized and a clarified definition of SC will be produced.
I suspect that some of you will be better able to detect the nuances and implications of this document than I can
Public Diplomacy, Networks and Influence 