ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Smith–Mundt Act

The Smith-Mundt Act is a law that was created by the United States government in 1948. Its main purpose was to regulate how the US government could use media to communicate with people in other countries.

This law says that the US government cannot use propaganda or false information to influence people outside of the United States. It also says that the government cannot spread information that might cause harm to the US's international relationships.

Basically, the Smith-Mundt Act tries to make sure that the US government is honest and transparent when communicating with people in other countries, and that they do not use misleading information or propaganda to manipulate these people.

It is important for the US government to be honest and transparent when communicating with people in other countries because it helps build trust and promote diplomacy. The Smith-Mundt Act helps ensure that the government communicates effectively while maintaining its integrity.