Publication

This paper evaluates the US system for foreseeing and heading off crises. It assesses US practices with regard to different types of preventive action, including intelligence community analyses, 'watchlists' of states at risk, interagency planning processes and foreign assistance programming. The authors recommend revising and strengthening the strategic planning process under the leadership of the National Security Council; improving and consolidating intelligence products and connecting them more closely to policymakers; and providing additional funding for preventive efforts.