From February 25 to 26, 2026, the William J. Perry Center for Hemispheric Defense Studies hosted its Washington Security and Defense Seminar (WSDS), welcoming 48 members of the diplomatic corps from nearly two dozen countries across the Americas for the executive-level forum. Led by Professor of Practice Eric Driggs and Research Associate Sydney Knapp, the seminar provided participants a comprehensive orientation on the development of US security and defense policy, as well as a contextual understanding of national security priorities and their relevance to the Western Hemisphere. Perry Center Director Dr. Paul J. Angelo welcomed participants, emphasizing that the 2025 US National Security Strategy underscores the importance of a focused, interests-driven approach to security—one that prioritizes strategic competition, strong and resilient defense institutions, and hemispheric stability.
Eric Driggs and Sydney Knapp lead the seminar
On the first day of the seminar, discussions focused on key executive branch institutions and strategic priorities shaping US national security policy. Sessions examined the roles of the National Security Council and the National Security Strategy, the Department of State, the Department of War and its components, and the Department of Homeland Security. Participants also explored great power rivalry and its implications for the Western Hemisphere.
The second day, held in collaboration with the Inter-American Defense College (IADC), addressed the legislative dimensions of US national security. Participants explored the defense budget and the role of Congress, as well as US interagency coordination in the Americas. The program included a session on the evolution of US defense policy in the cyber domain, a discussion on postgraduate defense and security education led by the IADC, and a session on disruptive technology. A lunch keynote address was delivered by Eric Farnsworth of the Inter-American Defense College.
Senior Official Joseph Humire addresses participants during the closing session
In his closing remarks, Senior Official Performing the Duties of Assistant Secretary of War for Homeland Defense and Americas Security Affairs Joseph Humire underscored the historic strategic shift underway in US national security policy and emphasized the importance of prioritization, sovereignty, and strengthened hemispheric partnerships to address emerging challenges.
Throughout the seminar, panels and presentations led by senior practitioners and scholars from government and academia examined US security and defense institutions and policies and provided participants with opportunities to engage directly with Washington-based policymakers and thought leaders, strengthening professional networks and fostering sustained collaboration.
We thank our distinguished speakers from the Inter-American Defense College, the US House of Representatives, the Army War College, the National War College, and the Perry Center faculty and staff for their valuable contributions to the seminar.
