Superseded

This policy memo has been superseded by DSCA 07-13.

 
DoD Shield

DEFENSE SECURITY COOPERATION AGENCY 
2800 DEFENSE PENTAGON 
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20301-2800

1/2/2003

MEMORANDUM FOR :

SEE DISTRIBUTION

SUBJECT :

Updated Guidance on Informational Programs (IP) for International Students Sponsored Under Security Assistance Programs (DSCA Policy Memo 02-35)

REFERENCE :

  1. DoD Directive 5410.17, "Informational Program for Foreign Military Trainees in the United States," 1 Mar 85
  2. DSCA Informational Program (IP) Handbook, June 1998

Reference (a) provides policy for DoD management of the IP for foreign military trainees and military-sponsored visitors in the United States under security assistance programs. Reference (b) provides detailed implementation guidance for these programs. We have received several inquiries regarding the appropriateness, cost, and focus of some recent IP activities. The following current guidance is provided for your use in ensuring the continued quality and integrity of this program.

  1. Responsibility for Implementation: Implementing Agencies are responsible for implementation of the IP within their agency. Cost factors for implementing the program will be included in the course tuition costs. Commanders of training installations should designate an International Military Student Officer (IMSO) to oversee and administer IP activities. Each proposed IP activity must be reviewed to ensure it meets the objectives of the program, is priced appropriately, and is not substantially of an entertainment or social nature.
  2. Scope of Funded Activities: IP-funded costs include transportation, meals, lodging, admissions, programs, and related incidental expenses. The student must pay for any personal shopping and services such as laundry, telephone, and other costs not directly associated with the programmed tour. IP funds may be used to finance the cost of medallions, plaques, or mementos which serve to commemorate the student's experience. IP funds may not be used to purchase alcoholic beverages or activities of a substantially recreational nature (e.g., entrance fees at sporting events or theme parks).
  3. Participation of Dependents: Dependents may accompany international students on IP functions, but only at no additional cost to the IP or to the U.S. Government.
  4. Types of Activities Permitted: Sections 543 and 541 of the Foreign Assistance Act (FAA) provide overall objectives for international training programs. All IP activities must provide students with experiences that emphasize these objectives (detailed in the table below).

FAA. Section 541 objectives:

Contribute to responsible defense resource management

Foster greater respect for and understanding of the principle of civilian control of the military

Contribute to cooperation between the military and law enforcement personnel with respect to counternarcotics law enforcement efforts

Improve military justice systems and procedures in accordance with internationally recognized human rights

FAA, Section 543 objectives:

Encourage effective and mutually beneficial relations and increased understanding between the United States and foreign countries in furtherance of the goals of international peace and security

Improve the ability of participating foreign countries to utilize their resources, including defense articles and defense services, obtained by them from the United States, with maximum effectiveness, thereby contributing to greater self-reliance by such countries

Increase the awareness of nationals of foreign countries participating in such activities of basic issues involving internationally recognized human rights

The purpose of the IP is to provide international students with an out-of- classroom, practical experience that reinforces these objectives. IP activities that focus on such things as: the Constitution and Bill of Rights; local, state, and federal government institutions; judicial systems; civilian and military relationships; our political process; and basic tenets of democracy (i.e., freedom of the press) would appropriately meet these objectives.

We appreciate your continued support in ensuring that all IP activities are focused on these objectives and topics. We will review and update the Information Program Handbook, Directive and the SAMM to ensure that these objectives and guidelines are clear. Please have your service IP coordinator contact DSCA if you have any doubt about whether a proposed trip/activity is appropriate under this program. Our point of contact is Kay Judkins, DSCA/P3-P2, (703) 601-3719.

Tome H. Walters, Jr.
Lieutenant General, USAF
Director

DISTRIBUTION :

DEPUTY ASSISTANT SECRETARY OF THE ARMY FOR
DEFENSE EXPORT AND COOPERATION
DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY

DIRECTOR, NAVY INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS OFFICE
DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY

DEPUTY UNDER SECRETARY OF THE AIR FORCE
(INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS)
DEPARTMENT OF THE AIR FORCE

DIRECTOR, DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY

DIRECTOR, NATIONAL IMAGERY AND MAPPING AGENCY

DIRECTOR, DEFENSE THREAT REDUCTION AGENCY

DIRECTOR, DEFENSE REUTILIZATION AND MARKETING SERVICE

DIRECTOR, DEFENSE CONTRACT MANAGEMENT AGENCY

DIRECTOR, DEFENSE INFORMATION SYSTEMS AGENCY

DIRECTOR, DEFENSE LOGISTICS INFORMATION SERVICE

DEPUTY DIRECTOR FOR INFORMATION ASSURANCE,
NATIONAL SECURITY AGENCY

DEPUTY DIRECTOR FOR SECURITY ASSISTANCE,
DEFENSE FINANCE AND ACCOUNTING SERVICE - DENVER CENTER

DEAN, SCHOOL OF INTERNATIONAL GRADUATE STUDIES

CC :

DISAM
DILLS