Center for Strategic and International Studies

From Larry Arno Watkins

Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS)[edit]

The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) is a non-profit, non-partisan think tank based in Washington, D.C. Founded in 1962, CSIS provides strategic insights and policy solutions to decision-makers in government, business, and civil society. The organization focuses on global issues such as national security, economic policy, energy, international development, and geopolitical conflicts. CSIS conducts research, analysis, and policy advocacy to inform and shape public debates and policy decisions.

History[edit]

The Center for Strategic and International Studies was founded in 1962 by David M. Abshire and Admiral Arleigh Burke of the U.S. Navy to provide policy analysis and strategic insights on military and national security issues during the Cold War. Originally, CSIS focused primarily on U.S. defense strategy and international security, but over time, it expanded its scope to cover a broader range of global challenges, including economic policy, international development, energy security, and climate change.

Over the decades, CSIS has become one of the leading think tanks in the United States, regularly advising government leaders, international organizations, and the private sector on key global issues. Its work has influenced U.S. policy on matters ranging from military strategy to trade policy, human rights, and global health.

Mission[edit]

The mission of CSIS is to provide strategic insights and policy solutions that help policymakers, business leaders, and the public address critical global challenges. CSIS strives to improve the understanding of key issues and promote international cooperation through rigorous research, objective analysis, and informed dialogue.

CSIS aims to:

  • Inform and shape public policy through research and analysis on a wide range of global issues.
  • Foster dialogue and collaboration among leaders in government, business, and civil society.
  • Provide insights into national security, economic development, international relations, and global governance.
  • Advocate for policies that promote peace, security, stability, and sustainable development around the world.

Research Areas and Programs[edit]

CSIS conducts research across multiple key areas, providing in-depth analysis on current and emerging global challenges:

  • **National Security and Defense**: CSIS conducts extensive research on U.S. defense policy, military strategy, and national security challenges. Topics include military readiness, cyber security, defense spending, counterterrorism, and nuclear weapons policy.
  • **Economic Policy**: CSIS provides analysis on international trade, global economic governance, financial stability, and economic development. The organization focuses on economic policy solutions that promote prosperity and reduce global inequalities.
  • **Energy and Environmental Policy**: CSIS works on issues related to energy security, sustainable energy, climate change, and the global energy transition. The organization examines policies that address energy supply, demand, and environmental sustainability.
  • **International Development**: CSIS provides research and analysis on international development, focusing on poverty alleviation, global health, humanitarian aid, and economic growth in developing countries. The organization advocates for policies that promote sustainable development and improve global health outcomes.
  • **Global Health**: The organization focuses on global health issues, including public health systems, infectious diseases, global health security, and international health policy. CSIS works to inform policies that strengthen global health systems and improve access to health services.
  • **Geopolitics and International Relations**: CSIS provides analysis on global political trends, regional conflicts, and international diplomacy. The organization focuses on key geopolitical regions such as the Middle East, Asia, Europe, and Africa.
  • **Technology and Innovation**: CSIS researches the impact of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital innovation on global security, economics, and governance. The organization advocates for policies that ensure responsible development and use of new technologies.

Leadership[edit]

The Center for Strategic and International Studies is led by a President and Chief Executive Officer, supported by a Board of Trustees and an extensive team of scholars, analysts, and experts. CSIS’s leadership is composed of prominent figures in international relations, national security, and global economic policy.

As of March 2025, the President and CEO of CSIS is John J. Hamre, who has served as the organization’s leader since 2000. Under his leadership, CSIS has expanded its focus on global economic and environmental issues while continuing to play a key role in national security and defense policy discussions.

Influence and Impact[edit]

CSIS is widely regarded as one of the leading think tanks in the United States and around the world. Its research and policy recommendations are regularly cited by policymakers, the media, and other think tanks. CSIS is often called upon to provide expert analysis and briefings for Congress, the White House, international organizations, and global business leaders.

The institute’s work has significantly shaped U.S. foreign policy, defense strategy, and economic diplomacy, particularly in areas such as global trade, military strategy, and climate change. CSIS has also played a central role in fostering dialogue on complex global issues, such as the U.S.-China relationship, the global energy transition, and international health policy.

Publications and Media Outreach[edit]

CSIS produces a variety of publications, reports, and resources to disseminate its research and influence public discourse. Some of its key publications include:

  • **CSIS Reports and Policy Briefs**: In-depth reports and policy briefs that provide analysis and recommendations on key global issues.
  • **The CSIS Blog**: Provides timely commentary and insights from CSIS experts on current events and policy developments.
  • **Podcasts and Webinars**: CSIS produces a range of podcasts and video content, including interviews with policymakers, scholars, and business leaders on a variety of global issues.
  • **Global Reports and Data**: CSIS provides data-driven analysis on topics such as international trade, energy, global health, and military strategy.

The institute also hosts regular events, conferences, and public dialogues featuring leading experts, policymakers, and global leaders, further expanding its impact on public policy and international discussions.

Funding and Independence[edit]

CSIS is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that is primarily funded through donations, grants, and contracts from foundations, governments, corporations, and individuals. It is committed to maintaining its independence and objectivity, ensuring that its research and policy recommendations are not influenced by political or corporate agendas.

CSIS adheres to a policy of transparency regarding its funding sources and works to ensure that its research and analysis remain rigorous, evidence-based, and free from external influence.

Criticism and Controversies[edit]

While CSIS is respected for its research and policy analysis, it has faced occasional criticism, particularly from those who disagree with its policy recommendations or perceive potential biases in its work. Some critics have raised concerns about the influence of corporate sponsors and government funders on the institute’s research.

However, CSIS defends its approach by emphasizing its commitment to providing objective, data-driven analysis and promoting policies that advance global stability, economic growth, and human security.

External Links[edit]

References[edit]

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