Summary: GAO examined some of the U.S. International Communication Agency's (USICA) overseas information programs.
USICA missions feel that direct and substantive personal contact with foreign citizens is their most important activity; however, the missions differ in these activities, and substantial amounts of time and money are invested in activities aimed at establishing contacts with a limited audience. Administrative burdens, lack of language proficiency, and a lack of continuity in staffing all impede public affairs officers from making personal contacts. USICA could reduce costs by eliminating the least-effective communication methods in some countries rather than simply shaving funds from each program. USICA cultural programs are often irrelevant and fail to satisfy the overseas missions' planning requirements. About 68 percent of the overseas libraries and reading rooms have been discontinued for budgetary reasons. An apparent neglect of some libraries has led to such deterioration that their maintenance may no longer be justified. USICA has been less involved with foreign associations established to promote mutual understanding. The USICA responsibility to assist Americans in enhancing their understanding of other societies has failed to fulfill its promise. The Distribution and Record System, which was developed to record personal contacts, has been severely handicapped by installation delays and skepticism on the part of post officers as to its utility.
