The National Security Policy Process: The National Security Council and Interagency System

Abstract

Abstract : How United States' foreign, defense, and other national security policies are developed, coordinated, articulated, and implemented is critically important to this nation's well being. This process begins internally with the federal agencies responsible for our national security and culminates with the President ultimately making the decisions. To do this, the President needs a defined and smoothly functioning policy development and decision-making process. Other than an extremely broad outline of who should participate in the process, there are no laws or regulations directing how policy options should be developed and decisions made. Much depends upon personalities and the strengths and weaknesses of the people who work for the President, as well as the personality and management style of the President himself. Central to the policy development and decision-making process is the National Security Council which serves as the President's principal forum for considering national security and foreign policy matters with his senior national security advisors and cabinet officials. The Council advises and assists the President on national security and foreign policies and also serves as the President's principal arm for coordinating these policies among various government agencies. This paper provides an annually updated report describing the national security decision-making process of the U.S. government. Although decisions affecting our security have been made since the nation's birth, the foundations of the current system were laid immediately following World War II. This paper briefly summarizes how the process has evolved since its creation under President Truman. It describes the current NSC organizational structure and processes, and defines the roles of the key departments and agencies, including that of the National Security Council staff.