When I was a young girl, I enjoyed listening to the story of Ali Baba, who discovered the secret to open the thieves’ den using the magic words“ open sesame.” I find that the fictional story of Ali Baba has some truth to it. For example, saying the right words in a job interview can land you the job. Now, let’s take the same concept and apply it to international negotiations and diplomatic language. Using the right language will help you accomplish the negotiations. But how do you know what is the correct language for your audience? Each language finds its roots in its culture; the core values of the people who speak that language
Employing the right verbiage is the missing element from the U.S. communication with Iran. Usually, the exchange is shrouded with tension and pressure but lacks effectiveness. For example, it took five years to free the U.S. hikers who were captured near the Iraq-Iran border in 2009.
Now, the U.S. is trying to connect with the Iranian protesters, who are on the streets demonstrating against the increase in the fuel price. Secretary Pompeo put the U.S. weight behind the protesters and said, “ the U.S. is with you.” As powerful as it is, the statement is missing “the magical words” to achieve an impact and make a connection.
Two Basic Steps
When conducting any communications with the Iranians;
- Reference justice and fairness, a concept that influenced the Iranian culture since the 10th century BC, when their prophet and philosopher Zarathustra preached the Kingdom of Justice and Fairness. So, rather than just telling the protesters that “ the United States is with you,” a more effective communication can be “ the U.S.acknowledges the claims of the protesters to be just.” Referencing the claims as fair and right would have advanced the U.S. interest and refuted any future attempt by the Iranian government to label protestors as the U.S. fifth column.
- Design a clear statement; telling the protesters that the U.S. is with you is vague. So, based on the statement, what will the U.S. do to be with protesters? Unfortunately, the answer is not clear. Thus, the U.S. cannot establish a connection with the protestors or give them momentum.
Using more effective communication is the first step to connect with the Iranian people. Unlike Ali Baba, the U.S. might not find a treasure, but definitely, the U.S. will establish a connection.