International Communication

International Communication Definition

• International communication is the study of heterophilous mass-mediated communication between two or more countries with differing backgrounds.
• It involves the interaction of two or more societies/nations linked by mass media communication.

Characteristics of International Communication

• It takes place at the societal level.
• It is a type of mass-mediated communication (i.e., few-to-many communication mediated by technologies such as radio, television, and computer networks).
• Communicating countries may differ ideologically, culturally, in level of economic development, and in language.

Evolution of International Communication

• Advances in communication and information technologies have greatly enhanced the scope of international communication.
• It has gone beyond government-to-government and now includes business-to-business and people-to-people interactions at a global level.

Non-State International Actors

• Many non-state international actors, such as:
  • Public Interest Organizations (PINGOs) (e.g., Amnesty International, Greenpeace)
  • Business Interest Organizations (BINGOs) (e.g., GE News Corporation, AT&T)
  • International Organizations (IGOs) (e.g., European Union, NATO, ASEAN)
• Are increasingly shaping international communication.

Impact of International Communication

• It can contribute to resolving global conflict and promoting mutual understanding among nations.
• However, it has often been used to promote the economic and political interests of powerful nations.
• It can foster freedom, including freedom of press, speech, writing, and expression at diverse levels in society.

Role of International Communication

• It can mediate to open the gate of dialogue and discussion over several unresolved issues.
• It can foster sustained contact at all levels, from grassroots to strategic levels.
• It can promote international brotherhood and fraternity, providing a sense of oneness among nations.
• It can help remove misunderstandings and adapt to multi-cultures in diverse cultural backgrounds.

Globalization and International Communication

• Globalization is credited to have been an active partner for nations to come closer through international communication and contact.
• International communication is a reflection of thought of multiculturalism.