International Security Studies Department

Asia Security Programme

The rise of China as a global power is but one of the challenges facing the region. The transformation of Japan’s military posture, the nuclearisation of the Korean peninsula and terrorist problems in South East Asia remain important topics in the Programme’s activities.

European Security Programme

After years of frequently arid debates, the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy is now developing fast. Progress is being made in co-ordinating national procurement efforts, and the establishment of the European Defence Agency is a landmark. The Institute’s European Programme sets these developments in their wider political and strategic context.Work is also devoted to a continuing analysis of security developments in European countries outside the EU - such as the Balkans and the former Soviet Union.

Middle East and North Africa Security Programme

This Programme stimulates debate on the defence, security and politics of the Middle East and North Africa region. It provides a unique opportunity for policymakers, academics, diplomats, the armed forces and the business community to discuss developments in this area and their impact on the rest of the world. Some of the most recent activities include the creation of a forum discussing Islam and its links across frontiers, as well as regional security challenges in the Gulf and the wider Mediterranean area.

Transatlantic Programme

Since 11 September 2001, the United States and its allies have shifted towards a more active international intervention strategy. Against this background, transatlantic debates on strategic threat assessment, security policy and military interoperability have become increasingly important. The RUSI Transatlantic Programme provides information, analysis and a forum for debate on defence and security trends in the United States and the transatlantic impact of these developments. The Programme enjoys strong working relationships with the US Department of Defense and State Department, as well as Allied Command Transformation.

Africa Programme

Africa is increasingly emerging as a major factor in global politics, security and development. The continent remains a contested zone for external actors, as well as being a site of internal conflicts. But the story of contemporary Africa goes far beyond the ‘standard’ image of conflict, bad governance and underdevelopment.