Security Cooperation Organizations in the Country Team: Options for Success

Security assistance (SA) and security cooperation (SC) are interrelated missions that rely on military staff located in U.S. embassies in partner countries. Security assistance falls under the purview of the U.S. Department of State, while security cooperation (which in the broadest sense includes SA) is the domain of the U.S. Defense Department. This means that funds, authorities, and personnel from both departments must work together to design, plan, and execute SA and SC programs that further U.S. interests abroad. In stable countries, current structures can accomplish SA and SC objectives, although in most cases there is room for improvement. However, in countries that are threatened by insecurity or instability, actions may be required that are not easily accomplished under current systems. This report examines three options for improving current approaches to security cooperation. The options range from relatively minor changes in current practices to those that require new policies, procedures, organizations, and authorities.