Representing Russia

A not infrequent comment about lawyers is how they could defend someone who, in the eyes of the general public, is beyond redemption. This person, whoever it might be, has committed an act so awful that the act of stepping up to speak on their behalf is difficult to understand. Even though in the United States it is recognized that everyone - good or bad - has a right to legal council, the fact anyone could actually take on this responsibility is difficult for some to understand or appreciate. "How can you defend somebody who just did this awful crime," they will ask? Good question. But those who do it have an even better answer.


There are instances in public relations when agencies or practitioners are called upon to counsel or be the public voice or face on behalf of those that may seem undeserving. Such an instance, of course, is not quite the same as it is for lawyers since nowhere is it written or has it been decreed that everyone is entitled to public relations council. There are no "public" public relations practitioners as there are public defenders. Having said that, however, it is important to note that everyone does deserve a voice if they believe they need one. This what professional communicators do. In fact, those belonging to the Public Relations Society of America are pledged to do that.


One of the largest public relations firms in the world, Ketchum, is in the news these days because they are providing a voice on behalf of Russia, a country many are not feeling positive toward due to their military aggressions against the Ukraine and strong-armed censorship tactics against their own people, including the media. Should Ketchum be doing this? Should Russia be one client, regardless of what they are willing to pay, that Ketchum walks away from? One can certainly make a good argument for why Ketchum should not represent such a country. For me, particularly since Russia has other means by which to make their views and key leaders known, I believe Ketchum should think twice - at least - before maintaining a tie with Russia at this time.