Center for Strategic and International Studies

Overview

The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) is a bipartisan, nonprofit policy research organization established in 1962 to address pressing global challenges and promote American foreign policy and national security. Founded by Admiral Arleigh Burke and David Abshire, CSIS was initially affiliated with Georgetown University until it became an independent nonprofit organization in 1987.

Mission and Values

CSIS is guided by a set of core values including non-partisanship, independent thought, innovative thinking, cross-disciplinary scholarship, integrity, professionalism, and talent development. These values contribute to its mission of making real-world impact by informing decision-making processes of key policymakers and influencers. The organization aims to create a safer and more prosperous world.

History

Founding and Early Years

CSIS was founded during the height of the Cold War to address strategic and international challenges confronting the United States. Initially based at Georgetown University, it began as a response to the geopolitical tensions of the era.

Key Milestones

• 1962: Founded by Arleigh Burke and David Abshire.
• 1966: CSIS research contributed to House hearings on the Sino-Soviet split.
• 1987: Became an independent nonprofit organization.
• 1990s: Expanded research focus to include economic policy, global health, and environmental issues.
• 2007: The CSIS Smart Power Commission offered recommendations for enhancing U.S. global engagement.
• 2018: Forecasts of a Russian invasion of Ukraine utilized satellite imagery analysis.
• 2022: Continued analysis on global security issues, including Ukraine.

Structure and Funding

CSIS employs over 240 staff members, including scholars and former government officials. The organization receives most of its revenue from grants and contributions from private foundations and corporations. Notable funders include the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Open Society Foundations, and the Rockefeller Brothers Fund.

Programs and Research

Core Research Pillars

CSIS conducts research under several core pillars:

• Geopolitics
• Economic Security
• Technology
• Defense
• U.S. Global Engagement

Activities

The organization engages in a variety of activities to promote its mission, including hosting conferences, publishing analyses, and conducting dialogues with international leaders. CSIS is regularly called upon by government bodies and media outlets for expert insights and recommendations.

Conclusion

The Center for Strategic and International Studies remains a prominent institution in the field of foreign policy and national security, contributing to informed decision-making through its rigorous research and bipartisan approach.