Plenary Session 6 - FBI: Maximizing Collaboration Against our Modern Threats

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.

The Evolution of Security Vetting to Counter Modern Threats

One of the most positive trends in international travel over the last decade has been the demonstrated ability to adapt. We saw significant increases in both passenger and cargo, then decreases due to COVID for passengers, but increases for cargo, and now a strong return on passenger – all against a background of a shifting threat environment. US government agencies and the travel industry also piloted innovative ideas and technologies to alleviate common stress points, as well as changes in operational procedures and staffing. As just one example, these stakeholders partnered to quickly implement enhancements in response to COVID to protect passenger health, safety, and security – and continued adapting. As passengers increasingly return to international travel, we will need to continue that spirit of adaptation and innovation. This session will identify opportunities to increase technology and communication, cooperate between international governments with commensurate screening processes and standards, and implement process best practices to further enhance the future of international travel.