Plenary Session 1 - Understanding the DVE Threat Landscape
Our nation is experiencing a measurable rise in domestic violent extremism fueled by diverse collection of racially, religiously, or issue-oriented ideologies. The problem persists on both ends of the political spectrum with investigations ongoing into both left and right-wing actors and organizations. In a July report, DHS’ own IG recommended improvements to the department’s ability to collect and consolidate information; yet even access to complete federal intelligence and information would only paint part of the picture. How can the private sector and local and federal governments better collaborate across the homeland security enterprise to share information while not infringing on Constitutionally protected rights? What information can and should be shared about impending threats? After more than 20 years of our current understanding, what is the new face of terrorism?
Debate Night - UNRESOLVED: Information Disorder
The age of “information disorder” is upon us. Deep fakes, false political narratives, and flawed COVID rumors are all rampant online, threatening America’s national security, as well as democracy itself. Though bad actors have always had the capacity to deceive, the ease, speed, and degree to which anyone can create misleading information has engendered a dangerous new world. And yet many solutions can also run directly against longstanding western principles, such as free speech and a lack of censorship. Prescriptions, some argue, can be as dangerous as the disorder itself. So, what can be done? In partnership with the Homeland Security Experts Group, Intelligence Squared U.S. debates how to combat this dangerous new phenomenon, termed “information disorder.” Our expert panel takes a look at what the private sector should do, what the public sector can do, and how political actors who spread false information should be handled.
Plenary Session 10 - Reflections on Nearly 20 years of DHS History and the Way Ahead
The Homeland Security Act of 2002 was signed into law on November 25, 2002 formally creating the Department of Homeland Security and in effect establishing the American homeland security enterprise. Many changes have been made since then including restructuring the organization and event creating an entirely new federal agency in CISA. Since its inception, DHS has been at the center of unique federal relationship with stakeholders - partnerships. What will the next few years hold for DHS and its partners? How does the current Secretary envision strengthening existing partnerships and building new ones?