Public Diplomacy Modernization Act of 2021

Public Diplomacy Modernization Act of 2021

This bill establishes measures related to public diplomacy conducted by the Department of State.

Specifically, the bill directs the State Department to appoint a Director of Research and Evaluation in the State Department's Office of Policy, Planning, and Resources for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs. The director's responsibilities shall include (1) overseeing research to improve State Department public diplomacy strategy and tactics, and (2) developing guidance and training for public diplomacy officers on interpreting and implementing public diplomacy-related research.

The bill permanently reauthorizes the U.S. Advisory Commission on Public Diplomacy and directs the commission to establish the Subcommittee for Research and Evaluation. The subcommittee shall provide advice regarding audience research, digital analytics, and impact evaluation for State Department activities.

The bill directs the State Department to establish a working group to analyze a potential transition to a shared-services model for human resources, travel, purchasing, and all other executive support functions for all bureaus that report to the Under Secretary for Public Diplomacy.

The State Department shall adopt certain guidelines related to collecting and utilizing information in the event of a closure or consolidation of a public diplomacy facility.

Bill 117 HR 1253, also known as the Public Diplomacy Modernization Act of 2021, aims to update and improve the United States' public diplomacy efforts. The bill seeks to enhance the effectiveness of US public diplomacy by modernizing and streamlining the operations of the State Department's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.

Key provisions of the bill include increasing funding for public diplomacy programs, expanding the use of digital and social media platforms for outreach, and promoting cultural exchanges and educational opportunities for individuals from around the world. The bill also emphasizes the importance of promoting American values and interests abroad, as well as countering disinformation and propaganda from foreign adversaries.

Additionally, the bill calls for the establishment of a Public Diplomacy Advisory Board to provide guidance and recommendations on public diplomacy strategies and initiatives. The board would be composed of experts in the fields of public diplomacy, international relations, and communications. Overall, the Public Diplomacy Modernization Act of 2021 aims to strengthen the United States' ability to engage with foreign audiences, promote mutual understanding, and advance US interests on the global stage.