Interagency Coordination Picking-up Where Goldwater-Nichols Ended
Abstract
The United States faces a strategic landscape characterized by uncertainty and asymmetrical threats that will challenge conventional thinking regarding interagency roles, missions, and coordination. The current interagency structure is framed by the National Security Act (NCA) of 1947, which mandated a major reorganization of the foreign policy and military establishments of the U.S. Government. Notwithstanding the original intent of the NCA, many in academia and government suggest subsequent legislations have unintentionally weakened the interagency process. This paper will answer the question, is there a need for a Goldwater-Nichols-type initiative to enhance integration of all the instruments of power of the United States? This analysis starts with an examination of the key factors which led to the National Security Act of 1947 in an effort to determine measurable causal factors. The author will then assess the current strategic environment against these foremost factors in order to answer the thesis question. The paper will show qualitative similarities in the challenges confronting the United States following World War II and today, and explain why the National Security Council is ill-equipped to deal with the challenges of the 21st century. Finally, the paper will conclude with recommendations intended to enhance interagency coordination and experience.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 07, 2006
- Accession Number
- ADA449263
Entities
People
- Floyd A. Mckinney
Organizations
- United States Army War College