Intelligence Issues for Congress
Abstract
To address the challenges facing the U.S. Intelligence Community in the 21st Century, congressional and executive branch initiatives have sought to improve coordination among the different agencies and to encourage better analysis. In December 2004, the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act (P.L. 108-458) was signed, providing for a Director of National Intelligence (DNI) with substantial authorities to manage the national intelligence effort. The legislation calls for a separate Director of the CIA. Making cooperation effective presents substantial leadership and managerial challenges. The needs of intelligence "consumers" -- ranging from the White House to cabinet agencies to military commanders -- must all be met, using the same systems and personnel. Breaking down agency "stovepipes" that keep information from consumers who legitimately need it continues to be a challenge for senior policy makers and Congress. The new DNI will have substantial statutory authority to address these issues, but the organizational relationships will remain complex, especially for Defense Department agencies. International terrorism, a major threat facing the United States in the 21st century, presents a difficult analytical challenge. Techniques for acquiring and analyzing information on small groups of plotters differ significantly from those used to evaluate the military capabilities of other countries. U.S. intelligence efforts are complicated by unfilled requirements for foreign language expertise. Intelligence on Iraqi weapons of mass destruction was inaccurate and Members have criticized the performance of the Intelligence Community in other instances. Improved analysis, while difficult to mandate, remains a key goal. Intelligence support to military operations continues to be a major responsibility of intelligence agencies. Counterterrorism requires the close coordination of intelligence and law enforcement agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 26, 2006
- Accession Number
- ADA474210
Entities
People
- Richard A.. Best Jr.
Organizations
- Library of Congress