Issues

Defense and Security

Analysis, research, and programming related to acquisition and resources, homeland security, strategy, reconstruction, military/nuclear issues, and terrorism.

Upcoming Events

Global Perceptions of US Defense in a Changing World

In-Person EVENT

Emerging Leaders and Young Professional members are invited to a lunch and roundtable discussion on the US military with Alex Wagner.

The United States Air Force Thunderbirds perform during the Pacific Airshow in Huntington Beach, California, on October 4, 2024.
Eric Thayer / AP
Nov
18
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Past Events

The Middle East on Edge: What's Next for Iran, Israel, and the Region

PAST EVENT VIDEO

Security and Middle East policy experts discuss the Iran-Israel conflict, the current ceasefire, and the status of Iran's nuclear program.

Jul 29
From left to right: Leslie Vinjamuri, Ali Vaez, Robert Pape, and Rachel Bronson on the Council stage.
Ana Miyares Photography

General Mark Milley on Navigating Geopolitical Tensions

PAST EVENT
Global Quantum Forum

General Mark Milley joins the Council to discuss today’s geopolitical tensions, global risks, and shifting centers of power.

Jul 23
A person is talking while sitting in a chair while people look on in the background
Ana Miyares Photography
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Commentary

Are Changing Demographics the Next Global Power Shift?

Podcast
Deep Dish on Global Affairs Podcast

China, Japan, and South Korea are aging fast. What does that mean for global stability?

Aging Population
Mark Schiefelbein / AP
Defense and Security

Can the US Reduce its Dependence on China for Critical Minerals?

Analysis
by Karl Friedhoff

Critical minerals are central to innovation and security. The United States is dependent on China for them. Karl Friedhoff explains why that is becoming a problem.

A person holding refined tellurium at the Rio Tinto Kennecott refinery in Magna, Utah.
Rick Bowmer / AP
Tech and Science
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Research

US Public Support for Alliances at All-Time High

RESEARCH
Public Opinion Survey by Coauthors

Solid majorities of Democrats and Independents think the United States should consult with allies before making major foreign policy decisions, but only four in 10 Republicans agree.

Flags of NATO alliance members flap in the wind
Geert Vanden Wijngaert / AP
US Foreign Policy

Critical Minerals, Rare Earth Elements, and the Challenges Ahead for the United States

RESEARCH
Report by Karl Friedhoff

Washington is already behind in the race to secure critical minerals and rare earth elements. This report presents a path forward.

Ore is hauled from the Kennecott's Bingham Canyon Copper Mine in Utah
Rick Bowmer / AP
US Foreign Policy
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Experts

Ivo H. Daalder 

President Emeritus, Chicago Council on Global Affairs
Headshot of Ivo H. Daalder
Expertise
North America
Europe
Defense and Security
Global Politics
US Foreign Policy
Social Media

Kathleen Hicks 

Distinguished Fellow in Defense and Security
headshot of Kathleen Hicks
Expertise
Defense and Security
US Foreign Policy
Tech and Science
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