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Fundamentals of Joint Operations I-9 b. The JFC’s Role. JFCs are challenged to achieve and maintain operational coherence given the requirement to operate in conjunction with interorganizational partners. CCDRs play a pivotal role in unifying joint force actions, since all of the elements and actions that comprise unified action normally are present at the CCDR’s level. However, subordinate JFCs also integrate and synchronize their operations directly with the operations of other military forces and the activities of nonmilitary organizations in the operational area to promote unified action. c. Multinational Participation in Unified Action (1) General. Joint forces must be prepared to plan and execute operations with forces from other nations within the framework of an alliance or coalition under US or other- than-US leadership. However, US forces often will be the predominant and most capable force within an alliance or coalition and can be expected to play a central leadership role. The military leaders of contributing member nations must emphasize common objectives as well as mutual support and respect. Cultivation and maintenance of personal relationships between counterparts are fundamental to achieving success. Language and communications differences, cultural diversity, historical animosities, and the varying capabilities of allies and multinational partners are among the many factors that complicate the integration and synchronization of their activities during multinational operations. Likewise, differing Figure I-4. Unified Action Unified Action Unified Action Intergovernmental Organizations Multinational Forces US Joint Forces Private Sector and Others Nongovernmental Organizations US Government Departments and Agencies The joint force commander plans, coordinates, synchronizes, and, when appropriate, integrates military operations with the activities of other governmental and nongovernmental entities to achieve unity of effort.