Louder Than Words: Tacit Communication in International Crises

In: Political communication, Band 9, Heft 3, S. 155-172

Abstract

Clear communication is generally viewed as requisite to the peaceful resolution of international crises. The success of bargaining, deterrent, & compelling strategies hinges on the credibility afforded by unambiguous signals exchanged between opponents. Here, theoretical & comparative case analysis reveals a substantial difference between the efficacy of traditional diplomatic negotiation & tacit measures, eg, the deployment &/or exercise of military forces near the scene of crisis as communication modes. Where negotiation alone often fails, backing, preceding, or, at times, replacing diplomacy with tacit measures afford the greatest chances for success. Policy implications are explored, particularly as they apply to US regional extended deterrent strategies for protecting geographically distant friends & interests. 3 Tables.