During a three-day workshop, participants will examine the issues and perspectives of key national goals, preferences in terms of strategies, policy guidance, and the dynamics of decision making in a democratic society. In an academic environment of non-attribution, participants have the unique experience of listening to and exchanging ideas with key US civilian and military officials who work in subjects related to the Western Hemisphere. Representatives of the U.S. Executive Branch, US Congress, the Department of Defense (J-5 and the Office of Secretary of Defense), the State Department, the National Security Council, the Department of Homeland Security, and other academic experts provides a variety of perspectives on the responsibilities, bureaucratic processes, and policy challenges faced by the United States as it develops its national security policy and strategy. The curriculum combines academic conferences and meetings with official representatives with dialogue and discussions moderated by Perry Center professors.