The National Security Strategy and National Interests: Quantity or Quality?
Abstract
The national security strategy (NSS), National Security Strategy for a New Century, published in December 1999, categorizes national interests as vital, important, and humanitarian and other interests. Although all three, as defined within the context of national interests, have relative merit for US national security, the classification of national interests is not necessary. The Bush administration should take this opportunity to formulate a coherent NSS that is based on the realities of the post-Cold War international community and more importantly, conduct a careful assessment of what strategy would be most suitable to defend clearly defined vital interests and subsequently, the nation's security. To accomplish the task of formulating a coherent NSS, the administration should accomplish three separate yet inextricably linked tasks to facilitate an integrated implementation with all agencies of the executive branch. First, eliminate the categorization of national interests and only identify those that are vital to the security of the United States. Second, assess the geo-strategic environment and its potential implications on the successful integrated implementation of the NSS. Third, create an organization, other than the National Security Council (NSC), to function as the executive agent tasked with effectively coordinating the integrated implementation of the NSS.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 10, 2001
- Accession Number
- ADA389699
Entities
People
- Leo A. Mercado
Organizations
- United States Army War College