We are delighted to announce the inclusion of a book review by ISG Africa Regional Program Lead, Dr. Whitney Grespin, in Fall 2023 issue of the Journal of Advanced Military Studies. In this issue, authors explore the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the global impact of Russia’s aggression in the region, and the future of conflict for NATO nations. Specifically, Dr. Grespin’s review provides a comprehensive analysis of “The Islamic State in Africa: The Emergence, Evolution, and Future of the Next Jihadist Battlefront” by Jason Warner, et al (Oxford University Press, 2022).

The Defense Security Cooperation University (DSCU) hosted six students for the final iteration of the Executive Education 901 Course from December 4-8, 2023, at its Arlington, Virginia, campus. The students were in positions, or moving into positions, entailing responsibility for the planning and execution of Security Cooperation programs.

The class had representation from the Montana and Florida National Guards, Air Force Air Education and Training Command (Air Force Security Assistance Training Squadron), U.S. Army Pacific Command, and the Department of the Navy. The course provided an understanding of Security Cooperation whole-of-government processes, roles, and responsibilities to include strategic considerations, current legal and policy guidance, and the various operational and tactical challenges impacting the planning and execution of Security Cooperation programs.

In December 2023, President Joseph Biden designated January as National Human Trafficking Prevention Month, encouraging Americans to recognize signs of trafficking in persons (TIP). With millions affected globally, the U.S. Defense Department is actively combating human trafficking through its Combating Trafficking in Persons (CTIP) Program. President Biden emphasized the severity of the issue, stating that TIP poses a threat to global security, public safety, and human dignity. He highlighted the staggering reality that “More than 27 million people around the world endure the abhorrent abuse of human trafficking and forced labor,” and reiterated the nation's commitment to end these crimes.

Looking for a good listen? Check the recent episode of the “After the JAG Corps” podcast, featuring ISG’s own Director Ian Wexler.

The interview takes you through Director Wexler’s time serving in the Navy JAG Corps; his last assignment in uniform as Director of the Defense Institute for International Legal Studies in Newport, RI; and his recent civilian transition to becoming Director of the Institute for Security Governance in Monterey, CA.

The Institute for Security Governance (ISG) West Africa Regional Program Lead, Dr. Whitney Grespin, presented at the United States Army Special Operations Command’s (USASOC) Geostrategic Symposium at Fort Bragg, N.C. Dr. Grespin engaged and shared her academic and practical expertise with USASOC and U.S. Government interagency stakeholders.

Congratulations to the latest cohort of “Fundamentals of Maritime Security” graduates. This course is structured to provide participants with the strategic context shaping the maritime space in the early 21st century; an overview of various maritime transnational threats; risk and governance self-assessment exercises; maritime domain awareness; and strategies and solutions for governments to effectively prevent, prepare for, and manage the consequences of various maritime threats.

The Maritime Security (MARSEC) functional area at the Institute for Security Governance tailors each of its courses to the specific conditions and requirements of the selected audience, focusing on strategic and operational levels.