PR Firm Hired to Sell Democracy to the Iraqis

"The United States-led occupation in Iraq has enlisted a British public relations firm to help promote the establishment of democracy in the country. The firm, Bell Pottinger, based in London, is creating television and radio commercials that will explain to Iraqis how and why the United States is handing over sovereignty to an interim Iraqi government in June. The campaign will begin next week on local and satellite stations in Iraq. Bell Pottinger, a subsidiary of Chime Communications, has decades of political experience. The chairman, Lord Tim Bell, ran publicity campaigns for Margaret Thatcher. ... Some advertising experts said they were wary about the idea of using television spots to push political change and encourage the growth of democracy. ... 'I hope Bell Pottinger learns from the real fiasco that was Charlotte Beers' campaign,' said a London Business School professor, Patrick Barwise. Bell Pottinger should be sure to ask basic questions, he said, including 'Why are we here?' and 'Why is there a problem?' "