International

Frustrated by survey results showing that "the bottom has fallen out of support for America in most of the Muslim world," Congress is asking the State Department to explain why U.S. image-enhancement efforts are failing. "When you consider that the State Department (DoS) has devoted more money and attention to public-diplomacy efforts in these regions in the past two years than anywhere since the Soviet Union's collapse, it's a sign that something's not working," writes Douglas Quenqua.

"Saudi Arabia breaks ads in the top 25 U.S. markets this month to give Americans a 'better perspective' of the Kingdom, and highlight its 'steadfast commitment' to fighting terrorism. The ads also depict Saudi Arabia as a 'modern nation' with 'normal people' who are struggling against the scourge of terror," O'Dwyer's PR Daily reports. The Kingdom paid its PR firm Qorvis Communications $1.4 million during its latest six-month reporting period, according to the company's Justice Dept. filing.

Throughout the world, including Muslim countries, people place a high value on freedom of expression, freedom of the press, multi-party systems and equal treatment under the law, reports a 44-nation survey of world opinion conducted by the Pew Research Center for the People and the Press. Support for the United States, however, is another matter. "The speed of the war in Iraq and the prevailing belief that the Iraqi people are better off as a result have modestly improved the image of America," states the survey summary. "But in most countries, opinions of the U.S.

The White House is dedicating $60 million to the proposed Middle East TV Network. The Broadcasting Board of Governors, a federal agency, will oversee the network, which will be headed by former CNN Washington bureau chief William Headline. "The BBG is currently doing market research in several Muslim countries that will determine the network's programming," PR Week writes. "Government officials are insisting that the network's purpose is not to influence Muslims with US propaganda, but to bring independent journalism into a region more accustomed to government-controlled press.