America’s Communication Problem

Abstract

After the 9/11 attacks, Americans made the connection between America’s image and its security. In the past, officials and scholars have repeatedly cited international public opinion polls, particularly U.S. favorability ratings, as an indication of the effectiveness of U.S. public diplomacy. The dramatic shift in the U.S. image alarmed officials. International sentiment toward America quickly went from an outpouring of global sympathy and support immediately after the 9/11 attacks to a palpable wave of anti-Americanism. America’s stature continued to decline - despite its focused communication efforts. Looking beyond the numbers, communication dynamics that emerged during the critical first years (2001–2004) suggested that America’s communication problem had less to do with its image and messages and more about its relationship with others in the international community.