Leadership and National Security Reform: The Next President's Agenda

Abstract

Abstract : This colloquium examined the contemporary international environment and American national security policy for the next presidential administration. Participants examined how threats, policies, and strategies have changed since 2001 and how the U.S., European, and other international security systems have responded to changing requirements. The participants comments centered on three In the post-September 11, 2001 (9/11) world, what threats and challenges face the next presidential administration? What reforms are needed to the current national, European, and international security systems in terms of policy, institutions, and leadership? How can the next presidential administration effect change to improve U.S. and international The answers to these questions are addressed more deeply throughout this report, but some key results of the colloquium are included here. First, the close relationship between development and security was identified as a key component of effective policymaking. Second, failed states present a challenge to policymakers and the U.S. Government requires institutional restructuring, including significant reform to the national security system as a whole, to face future threats. Third, the United States and the European Union (EU) will be more effective working together against similar threats to homeland security, but significant differences in the method of handling these threats exist that must be considered if joint actions are to be taken. Finally, the candidates for the presidency in 2008 will be faced with a choice between balancing domestic economic concerns and international security issues. In a debate on these issues, those representing the Republican Party focused on Barack Obama's lack of experience in national security matters as a major drawback.